Pitch invading Summer 'Pudding' banned after comical tumbling display

Reading's Socceroos goalkeeper Adam Federici has probably seen some interesting sights through his football career but perhaps none more amusing that Charlie Summer’s pitch invasion during an FA Cup match in March.

Charlie Summer enjoying his moment of infamy at Reading. The crowd enjoyed it, too (PA) Source: Press Association

The 20-year-old, who carries the somewhat appropriate nickname of "Pudding", on Thursday received a three-year banning order for his one-man pitch invasion during The Royals’ quarter-final replay vicory against Bradford City.

Pudding's crime: invading the pitch, ultimately, but his obscene gestures to the visiting Bradford supporters, and a series of hilarious somersaults inside Federici’s penalty box, no doubt also helped to seal his fate.

Stewards eventually put a stop to Summer's exuberance and escorted him from the Madejski Stadium turf, where he was subsequently arrested.

Summer, who is actually a Liverpool fan and had never been to Reading before, was also fined around $500 for his antics, but is ready to appeal his punishment.

“I think that I’ve been made an example of and that both the banning order and the fine are harsh,” he said after his hearing at Reading Magistrates Court.

“I apologise to anyone I may have offended but the reason for going on the pitch was to celebrate. I’ve had my five minutes of fame and I won’t be doing it again.”

The video shows the incident was taken in good humour by the supporters, with stadium staff even providing a soundtrack for his dainty gymnastic display.

But Louise Attrill, prosecuting, didn’t see the funny side, Press Association reported.

“He somersaulted three or four times before running up to the Bradford supporters, shaking his fist in a ‘wanker’ gesture at them. He was taken off the pitch by stewards and arrested,” she said.

Attrill added that while it might appear to be an isolated incident by a person of good character, it “could have triggered more widespread disorder”.

“It is quite clear he enjoyed the attention he received that day,” she said.

“It could be argued that this is showing disrespect to the justice system. It almost makes a mockery of the system, and because this is in the media, this behaviour should be cracked down on, he should be made an example of.”

Summer was reportedly pictured outside court giving a thumbs-up gesture for the cameras and media in attendance.

Paul Dick, the presiding magistrate, closed the case in telling Sumner: “You understand football and what public order and public disorder can be all about in a situation like that. We have no sympathy for you at all.”