Two arrested after brawl at soccer match

Police arrested two men after a goal-mouth melee following a Championship soccer match.

Staffordshire Police said officers were liaising with players from Stoke City and Queens Park Rangers, match officials and stewards to obtain a clear account of the fracas at the Stoke’s Britannia Stadium.

Reports suggested the ugly scene began when two Stoke fans attacked QPR goalkeeper Simon Royce as he celebrated his side’s 2-1 win.

A police spokeswoman said: “A melee took place in the QPR goal-mouth at the Boothen End of the stadium.

“Two local males have been arrested and are helping police with their inquiries.

“It would appear at this moment there have been no injuries.”

Witnesses said players from both sides ran to Royce’s aid, but then appeared to wrestle between themselves in the net at the Boothen End.

Stewards also became involved and it was three minutes before calm was restored.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Rangers manager Ian Holloway said: “The people responsible need finding and dealing with but what happened was not Stoke City’s fault.

“Simon Royce is a big lad and he can look after himself. He is fine – there isn’t a mark on him – and we will go and get on with things.”