“We are totally disappointed to see this type of aggressive behaviour, there could be children and elderly people there, we shouldn’t have to discuss incidents like this”- Gary O’Neil & Carlos Corberan condemn fan violence during West Brom Vs Wolves clash

West Brom and Wolves have condemned the frightening scenes that blighted their FA Cup derby clash, with families of players caught up in the chaos.

A meeting between two arch-rivals at The Hawthorns had to be suspended with a little over 10 minutes left on the clock after fighting broke out in the stands. Trouble was sparked after Matheus Cunha netted Wolves’ second goal in a 2-0 win. Security forces were quick to step in, but players – such as West Brom defender Kyle Bartley – had to go and rescue their children as feuding supporters were left bloodied and in police custody.

WHAT O’NEIL SAID

Wolves manager Gary O’Neil said: “I didn’t see much, I saw an overspill in the far corner. From where I was it was impossible to know what has gone on but it is really disappointing. Anybody who comes to a match wants to feel safe, there could be children and elderly people in there and we shouldn’t have to discuss incidents like this. It shouldn’t happen, I hope everyone is safe and there is no serious injuries or lasting affects.

It is a really big game, an FA Cup game between two local rivals and I thought the respect on the pitch between the players and between Carlos and myself was excellent. The game was played in a good spirit and it is just disappointing the things that went on off the pitch are needing to be spoken about and I am sure it will be looked into. My overriding feeling is that I hope everyone in that area is okay.”

WHAT CORBERAN SAID

Baggies boss Carlos Corberan told reporters afterwards: “I think of course we are totally disappointed to see this type of aggressive behaviour, but unfortunately we did and it is a pity. You start the question about this incident. This will be the summary of the game. For the rest of the game the fans created an amazing atmosphere, it was unbelievable what they created but now we have to talk about an action the type of thing we are against in football. It was unfortunate that this happened, but fortunately there was no dramatic situation with the families or any people in that area.

The lives are more important than anything. The situation was being controlled by the security people and the situation didn’t have any negative consequences for the families, but the players were worried because their families were there. The co-ordination of the medical people and the people who are in charge of the security and safety of the people has been excellent, that is why the game was played until the end. I was a little bit worried because when I called Erik Pieters to make the change, I saw that he was looking for his family and I lost my communication with him.”

West Brom have vowed to look into the incidents which marred a much anticipated encounter, with punishments set to be handed out.

They have said in an official statement:
“The club will work with West Midlands Police and the FA to fully investigate the incidents which resulted in a suspension to the game. Any individual involved in the disorder will be subject to a criminal ban, in addition to potential criminal investigation. The club will make no further comment until the conclusion of a full and thorough investigation.”

Wolves and West Brom had not locked horns since May 2021, with there always the threat that passion would boil over in the West Midlands – especially with away supporters seemingly able to acquire tickets for the home end.