Pitch Invader Has Stolen the Show

A grey squirrel has twice stopped play after racing onto the pitch and triggering a chaotic chase involving stewards and ball boys.

The squirrel first dashed toward the stands as a member of staff tried to corner it with a coat. It slipped away with a sharp change of direction, leaving its pursuer wrong footed.

Minutes later, it returned and sprinted through the legs of several chasers. Staff finally trapped it near the touchline using a ball boy’s stool and a coat after a diving grab.

The stoppages lasted around five minutes and broke the rhythm of the game. Many home fans reacted with laughter, calling the unexpected visitor the highlight of the match.