Police were forced to intervene as a violent brawl broke out in the stands during the Carabao Cup first-round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Port Vale at Molineux on Friday evening. The altercation occurred in the away end, overshadowing the season opener.
Scuffle escalates despite children present
One scuffle triggered additional spectators to pile in, despite young children being present nearby. When police arrived on the scene, they swiftly quelled the disorder as fans continued trading insults.
Port Vale have acknowledged they are investigating the episode alongside their Friday night hosts. "We're aware of an incident in the stands at last night's game and will be working closely with Wolverhampton Wanderers and the relevant authorities to establish the facts surrounding it," they said. "We take matters of this nature seriously and will consider any appropriate action once the facts have been established," reports the Mirror.
Wolves win 3-0
Wolves emerged as 3-0 winners in their season opener. The Championship outfit netted all three strikes in the first half as Adam Armstrong, Andre, and Fer Lopez all found the back of the net.
Despite the loss, Port Vale manager Jon Brady was satisfied with his squad's performance. Brady had urged his players to show courage against the Premier League contenders. "I thought in the first 15 minutes we had two of the best efforts," he said. "Jammo (Jaheim Headley) hits the bar, if it goes in, it could have been a different story, maybe. Three big chances we had."
"I could have come here and play 5-4-1 but I wanted us to go brave as a team and we went after them at times. I was really pleased with some of our play. We just didn't put the ball into the back of the net. You're playing a team that is expected to go back into the PL with top-class players. We pushed and I feel we showed a very determined side to us. But some of the play from them was fantastic. I'm really pleased and proud of the boys tonight."
Bosses react
Wolves boss Cesar Peixoto told BBC Radio WM: "I'm happy for sure. A first victory is important to bring confidence. A lot of things still to improve, that is normal. But we want to stay at a good level to start the season. We still need to bring in players that can improve the level of the team. I want things done as soon as possible but the market is delayed because of the World Cup."
