17/01/2006

Six sentenced after 'big two' clash

Six soccer fans have been given suspended jail sentences in Belfast Magistrates Court today, relating to rioting which erupted at a Glentoran versus Linfield match last April.

Rival supporters stormed the pitch at the big two clash after Glentoran beat Linfield to lift the Irish League title.

The Judge, Mr Desmond Perry, described their behaviour as "appalling" and added that people should be able to attend football matches without the risk of being disturbed by violence.

The six defendants were convicted of riotous behaviour and sentenced to two months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

Mr Perry warned the men that any offence committed with in that period would result in imprisonment.

Some of the defendants surrendered to police after their photographs appeared in local newspapers and others were arrested after police were permitted through the courts to view TV footage taken at the match.

Mr Perry said the fans that had come forward should be given credit but nothing could excuse the sort of violence he had seen on a video recording of the trouble, which broke out after the match had ended.

Several others charged with the more serious offence of causing an affray will be dealt with at the Crown Court at a later date.

(EF/SP)

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