Police are hoping to speak to any witnesses to an assault that occurred behind play during a football match at Bridport on Saturday.

A 44 year old man sustained serious injuries which required treatment at Launceston General Hospital during the incident.

He was playing for the Bridport Football Club against the East Coast Swans in the reserves game as part of the NEFU roster.

The incident occurred after the man led from full forward and went to go back to his position when the ball was diverted and headed towards the Swans goals.

The man received a hit to the face and fell to the ground. He made his way off the football field before being taken to the Launceston General Hospital by ambulance.

As a result of the hit the man sustained two fractured cheek bones, a broken eye socket, broken sinus bones and a misaligned jaw and teeth.

Police are investigating the matter and would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the actual assault. Information can be left via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.