Bohemians pay the price for unrest
Thursday, May 22, 2003
Article summary
CU Bohemians Praha have received the largest fine in Czech football history for crowd violence at a recent game.
Article body
Heavy fine
Bohemians have been handed a €16,000 fine and ordered to play their next three home games at least 100km from their V Dolicku stadium after last Saturday's derby against AC Sparta Praha had to be abandoned with Sparta leading 2-1 when a drunken home supporter attacked linesman Ladislav Talpa.
Drunken assault
Moments after Sparta had scored their second goal from a seemingly offside position, the supporter who had come straight to the stadium from his wedding, climbed over hoardings and assaulted the official. He was arrested by police but later released when Talpa declined to press charges. However, it seems likely that Bohemians will demand damages from him.
Title decided
It is a further blow for struggling Bohemians who have little more than a mathematical chance of avoiding relegation from the top flight. They are six points adrift of 14th place and safety with just two games remaining. Sparta are expected to be awarded the three points from the game when league officials meet on Friday. If that happens, Sparta will be crowned champions.
