Cats, dogs and even chickens – plenty of animals have invaded football pitches over the years, but few have caused as much chaos as this hedgehog. Yep.

The prickly character burst onto the pitch during the Red Insure Cup clash between the mighty Hitchin Town and fellow non-league outfit Arlesey Town last night.

After being discovered, the referee brought the match to a halt while it was removed, but that’s when things really kicked off.

The removal process was not easy, with the hedgehog hurting the linesman’s hand as he tried to pick it up. Dreadful scenes.


The linesman tried to pick it up and jumped back after hurting his hand. Hilarious. — Comet_Sport (@Comet_Sport) October 13, 2014

Looks the linesman’s hand is better now. He was grimacing earlier. #hedgehog #football — Comet_Sport (@Comet_Sport) October 13, 2014

It was eventually taken away and the match continued, with everybody getting away with their lives. It could have totally been more serious.

MORE: Bolton manager brazenly wears hat to training after banning hats