Notts County keeper hit in head by ‘vape’ and left bleeding at Gillingham clash as police launch investigation

POLICE are investigating after Notts County goalkeeper Sam Slocombe was left with a cut head after being struck by an object thrown by a yob in the crowd.

The Magpies impressed to claim the points — but the gripping contest was marred by the late drama which left their shot-stopper needing medical attention from the club’s physio.

AHPIX.comNotts County goalkeeper Sam Slocombe was struck by an object thrown from the crowd at Priestfield[/caption]

Slocombe, 35, carried on after a brief delay and Gillingham issued an appeal to find the moron.

Gills’ director of operations Joe Comper admitted: “Once again, we find ourselves investigating an incident which reflects poorly on the football club and will likely land us in trouble with the authorities.

“Quite clearly, any right-minded person can understand that this is not acceptable and it won’t be accepted at Priestfield.

“We are working closely with Kent Police to identify the culprit or culprits, in order for us to impose any necessary bans, as well as pursuing criminal prosecutions.

“You are passionate, loyal and devoted to the team and those that represent your shirt.

“It is a shame that the actions of a very small minority risk damaging your club in the form of heavy fines and potentially points deductions.”

The incident spoilt an otherwise enjoyable League Two contest in which forward Macaulay Langstaff’s 38th-minute strike fired the visitors ahead.

Scott Malone levelled on 57 minutes after Langstaff had been denied a second, before substitute Lewis Macari’s stunner — on his debut — won it for the visitors 12 minutes from time.

But Slocombe’s injury left Magpies boss Luke Williams wanting answers.

Williams said: “It’s a shame because in general the atmosphere was brilliant. This is just one person making a really terrible decision.

“Unfortunately something was thrown, I think it was a vape, and hit him on the back of the head and he has a cut.

“It’s upsetting, anyone who has met him wouldn’t want to throw anything at him, he’s a great guy and I don’t think he’s done anything to wind anyone up or anything like that.”

Langstaff notched his ninth goal of the campaign as he turned home Tobi Adebayo’s pin-point 38th-minute cross.

Malone then found the bottom corner with a well-taken strike for caretaker boss Keith Millen, before Jake Turner produced a good save to keep out Jodi Jones’ drive.

But there was nothing the keeper could do to stop Macari’s rocket.

Gills defender Max Clark was “gutted” and admitted: “It’s a tough one to take because they weren’t causing us many problems.

“We were a different team in the second half but they stood strong.”

Lewis Macari scored a stunning winner on his EFL debutRex