Chaos erupts at Johnstone Burgh game as young supporters kick off

Club investigates disorder

- CRAIG MCDONALD

Shocking scenes of crowd trouble marred Johnstone Burgh's crunch Scottish Junior Cup semi-final against Largs Thistle on Saturday.

Bottles and other objects appeared to be thrown as a large group of mainly young supporters clashed with opposition fans and stewards following a late Largs goal.

In astonishing scenes, several Burgh players vaulted the perimeter fence to enter the crowd and try to calm their brawling fans.

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

One supporter at the match, commentating as he filmed footage of the scenes, was heard to say: "It's absolutely unbelievable.

"They're chucking things now. This is ridiculous. It's not going to be long before the polis turn up."

As Burgh players, including captain Derek Esplin, dashed into the crowd to try and calm their fans, the supporter added: "There's a player coming in now.

"Johnstone Burgh players are coming in to sort it out.

"That's how bad it is. It's the captain of Johnstone Burgh.