Shocking moment riots break out in stands of Europa Conference League qualifier as police make ten arrests

1 year ago 103

SHOCKING riots broke out between fans at a Europa Conference League qualifier last night.

Dutch side Twente hosted Hammarby from Sweden at their De Grolsch Veste stadium in the second qualifying round.

But the first leg – which Twente won 1-0 – was marred by ugly scenes as supporters fought in the stands.

And De Telegraaf state police made ten arrests – including one minor – for public violence, assault and insulting an official.

The chaos broke out after the full-time whistle as video footage shows men throwing heavy punches, with one individual trying to protect themselves on the steps.

Police confirmed there were injuries but could not say how many.

Although one Hammarby supporter needed treatment on the pitch after falling in the stands and was taken to hospital.

It is understood the chaos continued outside the football ground with more violence between the rival supporters as police stepped in to restore order.

Hammarby’s travelling fans were then given a police escort back to their hotel to ensure their safety.

But the problems meant a music festival in Enschede city centre had to be shut down.

FC Twente general director Paul van der Kraan – whose side go to Sweden for the second leg next Thursday – labelled the riots as “terrible” and claimed it took a long time for stewards and security to react.

Van der Kraan also confirmed that 200 tickets in the home main stand were made available for Hammarby – for family, club personnel and sponsors.

But he said: “In my opinion, those tickets did not end up in the hands of the people for whom they were intended.”

West Ham saw friends and family targeted by AZ Alkmaar ultras at their Europa Conference League semi-final, also in the Netherlands, in May.

The Hammers were cleared of wrongdoing by Uefa after rushing to aid their loved ones – while Alkmaar were slapped with fines totalling nearly £69,000 and a one-game stadium ban.