A young boy was hit on the head with a bottle when Dundalk supporters were attacked following their team’s FAI Cup semi-final replay win over Derry City last night.
The incident occurred on Lecky Road as the fans were about to board their bus around 500 yards from Brandywell Stadium and involved young people who had not attended the game.
Those responsible have been widely condemned.
Independent Councillor Gary Donnelly described the incident as “disgraceful.”
He said: “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 11.15pm after a crowd of young people dispersed.
“Cllr Darren O'Reilly and myself escorted them out of the area as far as Prehen.”
Independent Cllr Sean Carr also condemned those responsible.
He said: “Derry is known as a welcoming city but, unfortunately, this outrageous behaviour will send out a different message.”
Cllr Carr expressed fears that if such incidents continued it would be only a matter of time before someone was killed or seriously injured.
Sinn Fein Councillor Logue said the incident was “absolutely disgraceful.”
She added: “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.”
Cllr Logue concluded: “They need to hear very clearly they do not represent this community or Derry City Football Club.”
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