Updated at 1.15pm with Swieqi Utd statement

A 20-year-old footballer from Swieqi was grievously injured last night during a fight between players during a match at the Mosta ground.

The police said the victim was allegedly punched by another 20-year-old player who lives in Sliema.

Another two players, aged 18 and 19, from Birkirkara and Naxxar respectively, were slightly injured.

The police said the argument broke out between two players at 9.40pm. The game, between Swieqi United and Gżira United, was underway.

The argument became more intense and within seconds a number of other players got involved in the brawl.

Police are investigating. 

Gżira Utd statement

In a statement, Gżira United Football Club said it condemned all kinds of violence during football so it was leaving it up to the police and the sports authorities to fairly evaluate what happened, what led to the incident and what steps should be taken to ensure football does not become a fighting arena.

Swieqi Utd statement

Swieqi United said the condition of the three players had improved and it had relayed all the information to the Malta Football Association and the relevant authorities and it awaited their intervention and action.

It noted that the U-19 match had been abandoned with the score 5-0 in favour of Swieqi Utd.

As it reiterated its commitment to fair play, it said it had always condemned violence, both within and outside football.