Gardai have launched an investigation after a young hurler was allegedly assaulted during an under-14 clash in Kilkenny this week.

The teenager was playing in a game between Tullogher Rosbercon and Galmoy Windgap in St John's Park on Hebron Road in the county when a melee broke out in the second half.

An onlooker explained that two players were involved in a dispute which a referee got under control.

It is alleged that an adult male walked on to the pitch, followed by a number of others, and a young player (13) was injured in a brawl.

The teenager was treated by a nurse at the scene and later moved by ambulance to St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny.

The game was called off and gardaí were called to the scene.

A garda spokesman said: "Gardaí in Kilkenny are investigating an alleged assault which occurred at a sports ground on Hebron Road, Kilkenny on Wednesday, September 14 at approximately 8pm.

"The injured party, a juvenile male, was taken to St Luke's Hospital Kilkenny with minor injuries and has since been released. No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing."

Sources have told Independent.ie that the youngster and his parents are extremely upset and distraught following the alleged assault.

A spokesman for the Kilkenny Bord na nÓg confirmed: "The gardaí are dealing with this at the minute. They are taking the lead on this.

"The youngster is sore after the incident but he's recovering well."

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