FA bans solid walls around non-league pitches after player's death

A tragic collision led to a major safety overhaul in non-league football.

Player

Billy Vigar

Incident

Died from head injury after colliding with wall

Clubs

Ex-Arsenal academy, Chichester City

Rule change

Ban on solid walls surrounding pitches

What happened. The FA announced a ban on solid walls around non-league pitches following a review after Billy Vigar's death from a head injury in September.

Vigar was 21 and played for Arsenal's Development squad.
He moved to Hastings United in 2024, then Chichester City.
The wall at Wingate & Finchley has been removed.

The FA's review of pitch surroundings aims to prevent similar tragedies at non-league grounds.

In this story

Arsenal

FA Cup

Read the full story at Football.London →

More to read

Sky Sports

Papers: Arsenal could hijack Liverpool's move for Barcola

CaughtOffside

Arsenal star could leave before deadline after new agent holds talks with Serie A giants

Metro Football

‘Great option’ – Arsenal urged to hijack Man City transfer move for £70m Chelsea star

GiveMeSport

Arsenal Weigh Up Move For £77M Winger After Vinicius Blow

Daily Mail Football

Newcastle did NOT want to sell £75m Bruno Guimaraes - but 'very emotional' captain asked to leave for Arsenal, reveals transfer chief

Mirror Football

Arsenal could break unwanted transfer record as Mikel Arteta green lights two deals

FA bans solid walls around non-league pitches after player's death | Goallivo