England vs Russia violence: Trouble breaks out in stands and fans 'charged' after final whistle

Video footage shows supporters fleeing the Stade Vélodrome following a charge by Russian fans

Mark Critchley
Saturday 11 June 2016 22:07 BST
Comments
ENGLAND FANS ATTACKED BY RUSSIA SUPPORTERS AT EURO 2016.mov

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Trouble broke out between supporters in the stands of the Stade Vélodrome following England’s 1-1 draw with Russia, their opening game of Euro 2016.

England fans were charged by large sections of the Russian support, with video footage showing how many clambered over seats and stanchions to escape the stadium.

No segregation was in place between the two sets of supporters bar a blue sheet of tarpaulin which could easily be traversed.

Russia fans flares against England at Euro 2016.MOV

Police were reportedly slow to react to the charge by Russian fans, which came almost immediately after the final whistle.

Joe Hart, the England goalkeeper, urged supporters in the stands to "be safe" and "stay here".

On the pitch, Russia salvaged a point after Vasili Berezutski struck in stoppage time to cancel out Eric Dier’s opening goal.

England were in the ascendancy for much of the match - particularly in the first half - but failed to convert their dominance into goals.

It seemed as though Dier’s strike, which came in the 73rd minute, would be enough to take Roy Hodgson’s side level at the top of Group B with Wales.

However, with seconds remaining, Berezutski sent a looping header towards the far post which evaded a flat-footed Hart.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in