Rugby clubs issue statement after crowd trouble in 'Shed' mars cup final

The North Gloucestershire Combination Senior Cup Final was brought to a premature end on Sunday after a mass brawl broke out between supporters of local clubs, Matson and Longlevens, in the Shed at Kingsholm.

Longlevens were comfortably ahead on the scoreboard when the match was abandoned and were declared the winners. However, what should have been a celebration of local rugby was ruined by the behaviour of a small section of supporters and both clubs have issued statements condemning the violence.

Matson’s Chairman Lee Bayliss said in a statement: “As the Chairman of Matson RFC, I would like to apologise for any part members of our club played in the altercation at Gloucester RFC on Sunday 25th May, during the North Gloucestershire Combination Cup Final between Matson RFC and Longlevens RFC. In what should have been a great family day out celebrating local rugby, was ruined by a few supporters from both sides.

“We will be meeting as a club to discuss this matter and decide what action we need to take, following a review of footage and statements. We would like to reiterate that as a club Matson RFC do not condone this behaviour and takes such matters very seriously.

“We would like to congratulate Longlevens on their well-deserved win in the senior cup and are as disappointed for them that they were robbed of the moment to lift the cup at Kingsholm in a joyous celebration.”

🎶Swing loooowwww, sweet chariot….🎶

“Better class of fan at Kingsholm, don’t get that at the rugby etc etc” pic.twitter.com/9ktR3cqOf6

— The VOTTE (@TheVOTTE) May 25, 2025

It was the second time in three years that Longlevens had won the cup, having ended a 62-year wait for the trophy in 2023. Their rugby committee issued the following statement: “Longlevens Rugby is deeply upset by the events that unfolded during the recent North Gloucestershire Combination Cup Final at Kingsholm, which led to the premature end of what should have been a celebration of grassroots rugby.

“We are aware of and greatly regret the crowd trouble involving individuals from both sets of supporters. This behaviour falls far short of the values we uphold as a club – respect, sportsmanship, and community. Rugby is a game that brings people together, and there is no place for violence, intimidation, or disrutopn, whether on or off the pitch.

“We are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities and competition organisers as they conduct their investigations. As a club, we are also reviewing all available information and will take appropriate internal measures where necessary.

“We extend our apologies to the players, coaches, match officials, and supporters from both Clubs whose day was overshadowed by these unacceptable actions. To the wider rugby community, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone involved in our sport.”

The Gloucestershire RFU was approached for a comment.