Police are investigating reports of disorder after last night’s FAI Cup semi-final replay in Derry.
Derry City lost 2-1 to Dundalk in the replay at the Brandywell after Stephen Kenny’s side came from behind to maintain their hopes of another League and Cup double.
It is claimed a teenage Dundalk fan was struck with a bottle and a supporters’ bus was damaged during trouble outside the ground.
The PSNI confirmed a complaint of criminal damage had been made.
Chief Inspector Gordon McCalmont said: “We have built up a close working relationship with Derry City football club and the local community over the years and we are just as disappointed over what transpired last night following the match.”
Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said on Twitter: “More disappointing than @derrycityfc losing to @DundalkFC were the mindless thugs who assaulted a young Dundalk fan and damaged visitors bus.”
More disappointing than @derrycityfc losing to @DundalkFC were the mindless thugs who assaulted a young Dundalk fan & damaged visitors bus.
— Martin McGuinness (@M_McGuinness_SF) October 5, 2016
Independent councillor Gary Donnelly, who was called to the scene, also condemned the attack.
He told BBC Radio Foyle: “When I arrived the crowd had dispersed and the Dundalk fans’ minibus, which had been attacked, had been repaired and they were about to leave the area but they were visibly shaken.
“Residents told me that after the game a number of Dundalk fans were making their way back to the bus when one of them was assaulted.
Cllr. Donnelly/others escorted Dundalk fans to Prehen; @PSNIFoyle liase with escort group to ensure safety/statements made, @BBCRadioFoyle?
— Chris :) (@chris_derry) October 5, 2016
“A young boy of about 14 years old was hit on the back of the head with a bottle before locals intervened and the four guys ran off.”
The PSNI said officers would be meeting representatives from Derry City to review what happened.
Mr McCalmont added: “In relation to the incident last night we were in continuous contact with key members of the community ensuring the appropriate police response and the safety of the Dundalk supporters.
“We would like to thank all those from the community involved in managing this difficult situation.
“We are asking anyone who witnessed the disorder or who could assist with our inquiries to come forward.”
