A Sinn Fein councillor has thanked those who aided her father after he was injured following violent outbreaks at a football game between Newry City and Portadown FC on Friday night.
Following the scoreless stalemate at the Showgrounds in Newry, ugly scenes broke out with a number of supporters and cars being attacked.
Councillor Valerie Harte said there is “no place for criminal thuggery in sport”.
“Newry City Football Club and those involved with it have worked hard to ensure that it is welcoming sports club, open to all,” she said.
“My father and all who follow it are proud of the Club’s achievements. It is disappointing that this criminal thuggery inflicted on him and other supporters last night occurred.
“There is no place for thuggery in sport. I fully expect the PSNI and the relative authorities to investigate this incident, identify those involved and ensure they face the full rigours of the law.
“Finally I would like to thank those who aided my father after he was injured.”
Sergeant Michael Gallagher said: “We are currently investigating an incident which occurred following a football match between Newry City AFC and Portadown Football club.
“We received a report that a number of vehicles had been damaged in the Showgrounds’ car park and that one man had been injured with a bottle. Another man was reported to have been injured in a fall from the roof of a car.
“The NI Ambulance Service also attended and treated one person at the scene. Another was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries that are not thought to be life-threatening at this time.
“Police will be working alongside both football clubs with the aim of identifying those involved. If you believe you can assist us with our enquiries, please contact 101 and quote reference number 1679 of 20/4/18.
“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”
The Newry Mourne & Down Councillor whose father was one of those injured said
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