Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Press Association

Romanian club Universitatea Craiova sanctioned after Irish referee hit by object during Europa League qualifier

Romanian side Universitatea Craiova have been ordered to play at least their next two European home matches behind closed doors following the Europa League qualifying game that saw a Northern Irish referee hit by an object thrown from the crowd.

Referee Arnold Hunter was separating tussling players in the final minute of extra time in last week's second qualifying round second leg between Craiova and Budapest Honved when he was struck by what appeared to be a smoke bomb.

He received treatment on the field and was then replaced by the fourth official for the closing stages of the match, which had been halted for half an hour.

On Tuesday, UEFA announced Craiova - charged with setting off fireworks, throwing objects, insufficient organisation, racist behaviour and crowd disturbances - had been ordered to play their next three European home games behind closed doors, with the third suspended for a probationary period of two years.

The club were also fined 60,000 euros (£55,000).

Disciplinary proceedings have been opened against Budapest Honved, who have been charged with improper conduct of the team, crowd disturbances and racist behaviour.

The case will be dealt with by the UEFA's control, ethics and disciplinary body on August 22.

Craoiva won 3-1 on penalties after the contest had finished goalless after extra time.

If you haven't already, be sure to like our Irish Mirror Sport and Irish Mirror GAA pages on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.    

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.