A FOOTBALLER who headbutted an opponent after a bad tackle during a so-called friendly match has been electronically tagged and given a 12 month community order.

Blood poured from Raoul Smith's nose on to the pitch after he was assaulted by Luke Walker 70 minutes into a match on the playing fields in Glenbow Road, Downham.

Fans of the opposing teams Eltham Town FC and Catford Wanderers then rushed on to the field in what appeared to be a “mass brawl” according to witnesses.

Giving evidence at Woolwich Crown Court against the underdogs Elms FC player Mr Smith said: “He [Walker] bounced off me during a tackle.

“A few players on his side laughed and joked about it but nothing was said.

“I won the ball again and played it off to another one of my players when he pushed me and said ‘What are you doing?’ “I turned round and he basically headbutted me in the nose.

“There was a lot of blood.”

Walker, of Elfrida Crescent, Catford, admitted one count of actual bodily harm (ABH) against Mr Smith.

He was cleared of ABH against another Catford player Duncan Chiles and of assaulting Mr Smith's brother Mark.

The 21-year-old was also found not guilty of two counts of possession of an offensive weapon.

Judge Philip Shorrock handed him a 12 month community order including a four month curfew between 9pm and 6am.

He must also go to an attendance centre for 24 hours.