FA to probe Cup tie violence

The Football Association is to investigate the violent scenes which marred Chelsea’s Carling Cup victory over West Ham at Stamford Bridge last night.

During the match Chelsea goalscorer Mateja Kezman was forced to leave the field for treatment to a head injury caused by a missile, believed to be a coin, which appeared to have been thrown from a section of West Ham fans.

Police in riot gear were then confronted by visiting supporters in a corner section of the ground 10 minutes after the final whistle and they fought with officers and Chelsea fans and it took 15 minutes for order to be restored.

“The FA can confirm they are investigating incidents at last night’s Carling Cup match between Chelsea and West Ham United at Stamford Bridge,” said a spokesman.

“The FA will seek reports from both clubs and the police, as well as reviewing video evidence and the referee’s report.”

The scenes at Stamford Bridge were the second successive night trouble had flared in London, with violence erupting at Millwall’s Carling Cup defeat to Liverpool.

A section of the visitors’ fans tried to charge into the home end after chants about the Hillsborough disaster were reportedly made by Lions supporters.

Security chiefs there said 68 seats were ripped out and two supporters from either side ejected.