Violence mars Iskra-Celik match

One referee, three policemen and several supporters were injured in clashes during and after the Bosnia-Herzegovnian Premier League match between NK Iskra and NK Celik at the weekend.

Only goal
Edin Smajic hit the only goal of the game as NK Iskra boosted their battle for survival with a 1-0 win to lift his side three points off the foot of the table and leave Celik in trouble. The off-the-field incidents began when Celik supporters threw several stones at an assistant referee in the 23rd minute. One stone struck the official who sustained a light head injury but continued to marshal the match after receiving treatment. Police also intervened and the match was stopped for five minutes.

Clashes occurred
After the game, clashes occurred between Celik supporters and the police when about 300 unhappy fans vandalised one goal in the Iskra stadium and several dozen cars in a nearby parking lot. During the clashes three policemen where seriously injured. Several dozen Celik fans were taken into custody where they stayed until a bus was organised to take them back to their hometown of Zenica.

Traditionally good relationship
The Celik management have distanced themselves from the supporters who caused the incidents in Bugojno. However the Bosnia and Herzegovina Football Federation (NSBiH) have announced that they will decide on any disciplinary measures towards Celik later this week. Iskra and Celik, as well as their hometowns of Bugojno and Zenica, have traditionally had very good relationships.