Police hit out at 'reckless' attacks on fans' buses

Police have condemned as “reckless and irresponsible” those who attacked a number of Linfield supporters buses leaving the Brandywell football ground in Derry last night.

In what was the first game between Derry City and Linfield at the home side’s ground in over 30 years, six buses carrying Linfield fans were damaged when local youths through stones and other objects as the vehicles left the ground.

Ten people suffered shock and one person sustained a minor knee injury when eight windows were smashed as the buses emerged from the ground.

Jim Roddy, the outgoing chairman of Derry City FC, condemned the attacks.

"The Linfield fans came to the Brandywell and they behaved impeccably, they were a credit to their club, and everything was going so, so well until these people tried to spoil the whole thing for us," he said.

Chairman of the First Londonderry Linfield Supporters Club Trevor Roulston added: "There was actually young girls and children on the bus and they were screaming. We were supposed to be going there for a game of football, we weren't expecting this."

Chief Supt Richard Russell, Foyle District Commander said: “I am extremely disappointed that the mindless actions of a few spoiled what had been a mainly trouble free event. It is regrettable that the game will more than likely be remembered for the events which occurred after it”.

The match had earlier ended in a one-all draw after a late equaliser by Linfield's Mark Picking.

Police have appealed for anyone who witnessed the attacks to contact Strand Road on 028 7136 7337.

(MB)