Uefa to take swift action following Derry disturbances

CSKA Sofia supporters celebrate after the UEFA Europa League First Qualifying Round 2nd Leg match between Derry City and CSKA Sofia at The Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium in Derry. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Uefa have announced ‘urgent disciplinary proceedings’ instigated against both Derry City and CSKA Sofia following the crowd trouble which marred Thursday’s Europa League second leg.

The referee ordered both teams off the Ryan McBride Brandywell pitch early in the second half when the visiting section charged against barriers in response to Derry scoring to equalise the tie on aggregate.

It would be 13 minutes before play resumed but the authorities have commenced swift action following a tie that ended 5-3 following a comeback from the Bulgarians.

The charges against Derry are:

- Effective invasion of the field of play, Art. 16(2)(a) DR - Throwing of objects, Art. 16(2)(b) DR - Crowd disturbances, Art. 16(2)(h) DR - Insufficient protection of the playing area against intruders, Art. 40 SSR.

Uefa have also charged CSKA Sofia with a wider range of offences, including racist gestures.

They are:

- Throwing of objects, Art. 16(2)(b) DR - Acts of damage caused to the stadium and/or its installations, Art. 16(2)(f) DR - Crowd disturbances, Art. 16(2)(h) DR - Racist and/or discriminatory behaviour, Art. 14 DR - Violating the basic rules of decent conduct (staff member), Art. 11(2)(b) DR.

According to local reports, young families were forced onto the pitch as CSKA Ultras ripped up seats and rushed towards Derry supporters.

A PSNI officer was taken to the hospital after sustaining injuries when CSKA fans were escorted along Bishop Street where Derry City fans were congregated outside the Oak Bar ahead to kick-off.

Both teams are in European action next week, Derry dropping into the Conference League. They travel to Croatia to face Rijeka on Thursday.

Uefa added: “As the proceedings could have an impact on supporter attendance at future matches, the Uefa Disciplinary bodies will decide on the matter early next week.”