Football chiefs to probe crowd disorder at tie

Scottish football authorities have launched a probe into crowd disorder which marred the Junior Cup tie between Johnstone Burgh and Largs Thistle.

- CRAIG MCDONALD

The game at Keanie Park was briefly stopped on Saturday, April 19, after clashes between supporters after the Seasiders scored a late winner.

In astonishing scenes, bottles and other missiles were seen being lobbed by fans before players and Burgh captain Derek Esplin dashed into the crowd to try to calm those involved.

In footage circulating widely online, stewards were also seen to grapple with some crowd members.

It's understood the incident has been mentioned by the referee in his match report and that an investigation will now be carried out by the Scottish Junior Football Association (SJFA).

Possible sanctions such as a fine for the club - who have maintained they had adequate stewarding place - could follow.