A footballer “did what any son would have done” by punching an opposing player in the face, a court has heard.
Ross Townsley, 26, assaulted Steven Ferrier as he argued with his father, Andrew Townsley.
Andrew, 54, who was in the dock at Perth Sheriff Court alongside his son, said Ross had been defending him in the belief Ferrier was about to lash out at the elder Townsley.
The pair, both of Tweedsmuir Road, Perth, admitted committing separate offences at Perth’s South Inch park on October 18 last year.
Ross admitted assaulting Mr Ferrier, while Andrew pled guilty to committing a breach of the peace by shouting, swearing and threatening violence.
Depute fiscal Bill Kermode said the complainer had been playing in a football team opposing that of Ross, while Townsley Sr had been a spectator.
He said Andrew had launched a tirade at Mr Ferrier, which continued after the match and ended when Ross threw the punch.
However, Townsely Sr claimed Mr Ferrier had been the aggravating party and his son was only defending him.
Sheriff Michael Fletcher fined Ross £300 and his father £200.
