Londonderry: Derry City and Bohemians FC condemn violent scenes

Football clubs Derry City FC and Bohemian FC released a joint statement denouncing the violence that transpired before and after their League of Ireland matchup on Friday. The altercation left a teenage boy and a man in his 20s requiring medical attention following clashes involving sticks, bats, and iron bars near the Ryan McBride Brandywell stadium. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is working to identify those responsible for the violence on Lecky Road and Lone Moor Road, which authorities believe was pre-planned.

Both clubs expressed deep remorse that the disturbances, involving individuals with no affiliation to either team, endangered the safety of genuine fans. The safety of everyone attending matches, including supporters, players, and staff, is and will always be the top priority for the clubs, as stated in their joint release on Monday night. Derry City has been collaborating closely with its security team to review matchday protocols for visiting supporters, while both clubs are assisting with the ongoing investigations conducted by the FAI.

Michael Kerrigan, the chairperson of the Pride of Northside Derry City supporters’ club, emphasized that those involved in the violence had no connection to football. He lamented the incident, contrasting it with the successful and vibrant Foyle Cup that took place the previous week. Brandywell resident Donna Brown recounted the terrifying experience for locals as they attempted to control the escalating situation, with some residents even relocating their children to ensure their safety.

Steven Egan, a lifelong fan of Bohemians, stressed the shared responsibility that both clubs now carry to prevent any recurrence of such violent incidents. He highlighted the need to shield genuine supporters from violence orchestrated by a few troublemakers. Sinn Féin MLA Ciara Ferguson echoed the sentiment, underscoring the urgency of identifying and holding the instigators accountable for their actions. SDLP MLA Mark H. Durkan echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for concrete measures to prevent future violent outbreaks during football matches

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