Northern Ireland

Man arrested following disorder at Larne clash with Shamrock Rovers in Belfast

Police said the Uefa Conference League match at Windsor Park had been ‘generally peaceful’ but a ‘small minority’ engaged in criminal activity.

Shamrock Rovers fans show their support in the stands during the Uefa Europa Conference League group stage match at Windsor Park
Shamrock Rovers fans show their support in the stands during the Uefa Europa Conference League group stage match at Windsor Park (Liam McBurney/PA)

A man was arrested and a second man was issued with a community resolution notice following a football match between Larne and Shamrock Rovers in Belfast.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said the arrest came following disorderly behaviour by some supporters attending the Uefa Conference League clash at Windsor Park on Thursday night.

The PSNI said it is also investigating reports of sectarian singing, unlawful processions before the match, criminal damage to two cars, including a police vehicle, and flares being lit.

A spokesperson said a 34-year-old man was arrested in the Boucher Road area on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.

A second man was issued with a community resolution notice (CRN) for disorderly behaviour.

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Shamrock Rovers’ Roberto Lopes (left) and Larne’s Andy Ryan battle for the ball during the Uefa Europa Conference League group stage match at Windsor Park in Belfast
Shamrock Rovers’ Roberto Lopes (left) and Larne’s Andy Ryan battle for the ball during the Uefa Europa Conference League group stage match at Windsor Park in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA)

Shamrock Rovers won the match 4-1 in a significant boost to the Dublin side’s European campaign amid a heavy police presence around Windsor Park.

Chief Inspector Mark Conway said the vast majority of supporters attending the match enjoyed the game and it was generally a peaceful match.

“However, a small minority who chose to engage in criminal activity are ruining the experience for other football fans, as well as causing disruption to the local community,” he said.

“Our inquiries are ongoing into potential offences. I would encourage anyone with any information about these incidents to contact police on 101.”