Recently, a video of the U21 Singapore Premier League (SPL) match at Jurong East Stadium between Tanjong Pagar and Albirex Niigataghi on the evening of February 10 has gone viral.
The video recorded the scene where midfielder Aniq Rizqin (19 years old) of Tanjong Pagar assaulted his opponent at the end of the match. Accordingly, this player suddenly punched defender Sim Jun Yen (17 years old) of Albirex when the two teams shook hands after the match. Defender Kenji Austin (20 years old) of Albirex intervened but was also punched in the face by Aniq. The sudden punch caused Austin to collapse on the field.
"We received a call for assistance at 21 Jurong East Street 31. A 20-year-old man was taken to hospital in a conscious state. A 19-year-old man was later arrested for causing public nuisance and is also being investigated for attempted assault," the Singapore Police Force said.
According to Singaporean media, after a medical examination, Austin did not suffer any broken bones or brain injuries. The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) confirmed that the Albirex player was discharged from the hospital on February 11.
A spokesman for Tanjong Pagar said Aniq Rizqin's behaviour was unacceptable and went against the core values of sportsmanship and fair play that the team has always upheld.
Tanjong Pagar will take action against the midfielder after receiving full information from the police. The club may consider terminating Aniq's contract.
Tanjong Pagar club's homepage also posted an apology to Albirex, the players and fans.
"The behaviour of our players does not reflect the values and standards of the club. We do not tolerate violence and unsportsmanlike behaviour," the Tanjong Pagar team wrote.
