Dundalk supporters attacked following Derry City replay

Local councillors have hit out at those responsible for attacking a group of football fans in Derry - Londonderry.

The Dundalk supporters were in the Brandywell area to watch their team take on Derry City in the FAI Cup Semi Final reply.

However, a group of fans and a bus came under attack just yards from the stadium on the Lecky road.

Describing the behaviour as “disgraceful”, Councillor Gary Donnelly said a teenager was hit with a bottle in the incident:

“A number of travelling fans had to be protected in a local bar after their bus was attacked.

“Windows were broken, tyres slashed and UTH and other slogans sprayed on it.

“A 14 year old was bottled on the back of the head and the elderly gentleman accompanying him pushed to the ground.

“The visiting fans only left the city at 11.15 pm after a crowd of young people dispersed.

“Cllr Darren O'Reilly and myself escorted them out of the area as far as Prehen.”

Councillor Patricia Logue praised the local residents who came to the aid of those under attack, she said:

“I would like to commend local residents, community workers and CRJ who came to their aid and tried to help them as best they could.

“Once again this area, the local football club is being left to pick up the pieces after a gang came here intent on starting trouble, causing injury and damaging property.

“They need to hear very clearly they do not represent this community or Derry City Football Club.”

The PSNI said plans are being made to meet with key stakeholders to discuss the issue.

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.

"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 very much part of this city and keen to ensure that episodes like this do not detract from the overall reputation of the area.

"We shall meet with the community and the club in the coming days and review this incident and reaffirm our commitment to safe events at Derry city football club.”