Reports of sectarian singing at match

Police are investigating reports of sectarian singing at Thursday’s European football match in Belfast involving Larne and Shamrock Rovers.

A police vehicle was damaged and one man was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.

The game at Windsor Park brought together the reigning league champions from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in a UEFA Conference League tie.

Shamrock Rovers won 4-1 in a one-sided encounter, played in front of almost 6,000 spectators.

There was a significant police presence outside the ground and supporters of the two clubs entered via separate entrances.

Most Larne fans went in from the Lisburn Road end of the stadium and most Shamrock Rovers supporters entered via the Boucher Road entrance.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police arrested a man and issued a community resolution notice following disorderly behaviour by supporters.

“Officers are 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 34-year-old man was arrested in the Boucher Road area on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.“

After the game, there were complaints on social media about the behaviour of some Shamrock Rovers fans, with chants about the IRA and the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

PSNI Ch Insp 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.

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

There has been no comment from Larne FC.

A spokesperson for Shamrock Rovers said the club condemns any form of bigotry and discrimination in football.

“The club’s policy in this regard is long-standing, is stated on the official club website and is also announced on the PA system in advance of every home game at Tallaght Stadium,” said the spokesperson.

There has been no comment yet from UEFA.