Violent clashes broke out between supporters of
Newcastle United and Sunderland AFC ahead of the Tyne-Wear derby at St James'
Park on Sunday, March 22.
Reports indicate that fans from both sides engaged in
street fights, throwing punches and hurling objects at one another before
kick-off. The unrest reportedly began after a group of Sunderland supporters
broke away from a police escort and entered an area crowded with Newcastle
fans.
Footage circulating online showed police officers
attempting to control the situation as tensions escalated outside the stadium.
The Sunderland team bus was also targeted, with images
showing a cracked windscreen after bottles were allegedly thrown. A supporters’
bus was similarly attacked with cans and bottles as it departed the venue.
In a separate incident near the scene, videos appeared
to show a Newcastle fan receiving CPR, though it remains unclear whether the
case was directly linked to the clashes.
Northumbria Police confirmed that order was largely
maintained despite the disturbances and stated that one arrest was made before
kick-off. Authorities added that an increased police presence would remain in
the city centre.
The match, which kicked off at midday, was later
briefly paused early in the second half following reports of discriminatory
abuse from the stands.
A Premier League spokesperson confirmed that the pause
was in line with anti-discrimination protocols, adding that the incident at the
stadium will be fully investigated.
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