‘Piggy in the middle’ Folkestone Invicta striker goes viral after sending off in Isthmian Premier League clash vs Billericay Town

A non-league footballer has gone viral after being caught up in a game of “piggy in the middle” and kicking the opposition goalkeeper in frustration.

Millions have now watched the moment Folkestone Invicta’s Tom Derry saw red during his side’s 3-0 loss to Essex side Billericay Town in the Isthmian Premier League on Saturday.

With his team 2-0 down and a player receiving treatment, Derry was forced to watch on as Billericay keeper Sam Donkin performed kick-ups before fellow teammate Matt Johnson joined him in a game of piggy in the middle.

Left furious at having the ball mockingly lobbed over his head, Derry charged at the goalie and knocked him down before retrieving the ball from his hands as Donkin lay on the floor.

The referee showed the 29-year-old a straight red, a move which was greeted by cheers from the travelling fans. Invicta would go on to concede once more on what was a difficult afternoon for the side.

The original video, which was posted on X, has since been seen 2.7 million times – and has been shared widely across other social media platforms.

Fans have found the funny side, with Shaun Harley commenting: “This is some of the greatest s***thousery I’ve seen! Hook line and sinker. Well played.”

Piggy in the middle shithousery pic.twitter.com/yjhh7Kykjz

Crystal Palace fan account HLTCO added: “Could well be my favourite ever red card.”

Sheridan Sparkes called it “the funniest thing I’ve ever seen on a football pitch”, while Jake Allsop said: “Piggy in the middle should be an Olympic sport.”

Manager Andy Drury told the club’s media team the matter would be dealt with internally, adding he needed to watch the footage back.

Derry now faces a three-match ban for violent conduct.