Local football under spotlight following weekend trouble

Local football was under the spotlight today following trouble at Saturday’s Irish League game between Linfield and Glentoran.

Both clubs, as well as football chiefs at the Irish Football Association (IFA), are to look into the game which saw hundreds of supporters of both clubs spill unto the Oval pitch in east Belfast following a last minute winner by Chris Morgan to leave the game 3-2 in favour of Glentoran.

Rival fans threw missiles at each other and fought hand to hand battles on the pitch for around 15 minutes before riot police arrived and restored order.

Irish FA chief executive Howard Wells said he would be asking for a report into what went on at the game which attracted more than 10,000 fans.

"We are trying to attract more people into games but they are not going to come if they see this kind of thing going on," Mr Wells said.

"It is just unacceptable to all people. It is frightening for those who were at the game, for families and children, and it means football is not a winner.

Glentoran chief executive Stafford Reynolds said neither clubs could be blamed for the trouble.

"Neither club did anything wrong. The damage was done by the people who were hell-bent on creating havoc after the game," Mr Reynolds said.

"I can see no reason why clubs can be held to ransom by the mindless few.”

A statement from Linfield said it was high time “all available evidence was applied rigorously to bring the offenders through the criminal justice system”.

"For those who set off on a beautiful spring afternoon to enjoy an entertainment and ended up injured, intimidated, offended and upset, we must take firm action,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, one man has been charged with disorderly behaviour and assault in connection with the incident.

He is expected to appear at Laganside Magistrates Court next month.

(MB/SP)