The FA is conducting an inquiry into the disturbances caused by fans during the recent Black Country derby between Wolves and West Bromwich Albion. The match had to be halted for 35 minutes while players were escorted off the field, as Wolves emerged victorious with a 2-0 win in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday.
Violence broke out in the section of the Halfords Lane Stand where relatives of some West Brom players were sitting. According to reports, a few Wolves fans were recognized in this area when they were spotted celebrating Matheus Cunha’s goal in the 78th minute of the match.
The situation caused alarming chaos as the conflict spread onto the playing field. Objects were hurled and Kyle Bartley, a defender for West Brom, stepped in to shield his loved ones. He emerged carrying his child and then followed the Wolves players into the locker room, as advised by the officials.
The authorities enlisted riot police to assist in maintaining peace and order, along with other police and stewards. Due to limited resources, 400 West Midlands Police were struggling to control the disturbances at both ends of the venue. Some individuals even ventured onto the field to provoke rival fans, but were eventually escorted off by stewards.
During the game, five individuals were arrested and one was taken into custody before the game even began. Additionally, at least one fan required medical attention and was transported on a stretcher, while another fan with a head injury was escorted away with their arms restrained. A plastic bottle struck a ball boy on the head.
West Brom has committed to permanently banning any fan responsible for the brawl. According to a statement released by the club, they will collaborate with West Midlands Police and the Football Association in thoroughly investigating the events that led to the game being suspended. The statement also stated that any person involved in the disturbance will be banned from the club and may also face criminal charges.
Possible rewording:
The Football Association has a range of penalties at its disposal, from imposing fines to partially closing stadiums. In a released statement, the governing body expressed its disapproval of the disorder that took place, stating that it is completely unacceptable. The safety and security of all involved is of the highest priority, and the dangerous and inexcusable behavior of those involved will be thoroughly investigated by the FA, the clubs, and relevant authorities. Appropriate action will be taken in response.
Jed Wallace’s parents were present in the area where the altercation began. The captain of the home team acknowledged that Wolves and West Brom are both significant clubs with highly enthusiastic supporters. He recognized the significance of the game to the players, managers, and fans of both teams, and expressed disappointment in the disturbance that occurred.
“That was the designated family section, so a group of children were gathered there. This may have caused some players to become upset and leave the area. I am not aware of the details or who may have been present, but it is unfortunate because the fans were fantastic and the atmosphere was electric.”
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The match ended peacefully as both coaches, Carlos Corberán and Gary O’Neil, decided to guide their teams back onto the field together as a gesture of solidarity. O’Neil expressed his disappointment, stating that everyone who attends a football game should feel secure, especially children and older individuals who could be present in the area.
“Fortunately, there were no major injuries or long-term consequences from the game. It’s truly disappointing because it was an important FA Cup match between two neighboring teams, and I felt that the players and I showed great sportsmanship towards each other on the field.”
The official attendance for the Wolves was 3,997 and they were located in the Smethwick End, which was on the opposite side of the stadium from where the disturbance began. O’Neil complimented their presence and enthusiasm, noting that it has been 28 years since his team has won at this stadium. He hopes they had a great time and will continue to support the team in the future.
Source: theguardian.com
