Northern Ireland warn fans over Serbia
The Irish Football Association has urged fans not to travel independently to the European Championship qualifier in Serbia on 25 March.
The association released a statement after the recent crowd trouble, which forced the match to be abandoned after seven minutes.
Scottish referee Craig Thompson had no option, but to stop the game after missiles were thrown at the players.
The Italian goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano was almost struck by a flare and he said, “It was impossible to play in that goal. I would have had to constantly turn around to avoid the fireworks. It wouldn't have been nice to get hit in the head."
A number of violent incidents were reported during the game and the kick off was delayed after Serbian fans threw flares and fireworks at Italian fans.
The Italian police arrested 17 people including 16 Serbian men in Genoa and UEFA is expected to punish both countries, but a severe reprimand is expected for Serbia.
As a result the Northern Ireland FA has decided to wait on the outcome of UEFA’S verdict and on their deliberation as to the risks of travelling to Serbia.
Stephen Grange of the IFA said, "We will be discouraging independent travel to Serbia and will be advising fans to ensure they are on organised trips and that we look to assist travel arrangements."
"The IFA's message to our fans is that their safety is paramount," added Grange.
However, Northern Ireland fans visiting Serbia is dependent on UEFA’s decision.
The delegation may punish Serbia by forcing them to play in a neutral venue, playing behind closed doors or they could face the ultimate penalty and be disqualified from the tournament.
If the match is to go ahead in Belgrade, UEFA will want assurances from the Serbian FA and the police that similar scenes will not be repeated.
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