Unruly Scenes at West Brom vs Wolves FA Cup Clash

In a shocking turn of events during West Brom’s FA Cup tie against Wolves, the match was halted in the 82nd minute due to a severe outbreak of in-stadium fan disorder. Clashes between opposing supporters led to children being directed onto the pitch, with police using batons to control the situation.

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West Brom’s FA Cup clash with Wolves took a chaotic turn when fan clashes erupted in the 82nd minute, causing a temporary halt to the match. The disorder escalated to the point where children were ushered onto the pitch for safety as tensions flared between opposing supporters.

Police were engaged in running battles with fans, prompting Wolves manager Gary O’Neil to instruct his players to leave the field. The trouble originated near the Halfords Lane End, with reports suggesting that Wolves players were targeted by West Brom fans. Concerns for the safety of spectators, especially in the family area, arose as scenes reminiscent of hooliganism from past decades unfolded.

The situation intensified as more than 70 police officers raced to the scene, facing resistance from some fans who appeared to strike out at law enforcement. In a rare occurrence, a Wolves fan was observed with a severely cut head, escorted off the field by police. Eyewitnesses reported instances of West Brom fans spitting at the injured Wolves supporter as he was taken away for treatment.

Wolves were leading 2-0 when the match was temporarily halted at 1:24 pm. Bottles were thrown at Wolves supporters from West Brom fans, and flares were launched from the away end after the visiting side took the lead. The scoreboard displayed warnings about the consequences of entering the field of play.

After bringing the violence under control, the stadium announcer relayed a message, stating, “If you want the game to continue, you must all return to your seats.” The Football Association, responsible for assessing such incidents, collaborated with the referee and the grounds safety officer. The match eventually resumed at 1:59 pm, with the match clock reset to 77:10 at the time of the second Wolves goal.

The delay in the match had a cascading effect, leading to the postponement of the FA Cup fifth round draw, originally scheduled for 2:15 pm, until halftime in the Liverpool vs. Norwich match at 2:30 pm. The incident leaves both West Brom and potentially Wolves vulnerable to sanctions, as clubs are ultimately responsible for security within stadium perimeters.