Newcastle fans targeted in Ukraine

21 February 2013 23:16

Newcastle's 1-0 Europa League victory over Metalist Kharkiv in Ukraine on Wednesday night was marred by violence both before and after the game.

Press Association Sport understands one travelling fan was taken to hospital for stitches after being attacked with Magpies supporters taking to Twitter to claim they had been ambushed as they arrived at the Sportyvna Metro station at the Metalist Stadium.

However, it is understood he made it to the game, which Alan Pardew's men won 1-0 courtesy of a Shola Ameobi penalty.

@andy5powell tweeted: "Loads of trouble before the game. Metalist charging Newcastle fans. Police letting them do it."

@Trotts01 said: "Newcastle fans taking a canny kicking outside away metro station, be careful."

There were further problems inside the stadium after the final whistle when several hundred home fans climbed over the hoardings on to the track around the pitch to confront stewards.

However, reports from the Newcastle contingent were more positive as they headed back into the city centre.

@andy5powell tweeted: "Hats off after the game. Police got it right. Escorts to centre of town and a large police presence about."

The incidents came 24 hours after Tottenham fans were attacked in Lyon on Wednesday night.

Source: PA