A violent brawl broke out in the stands during the Carabao Cup first-round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Port Vale on Friday evening. Police were forced to intervene as punches were thrown in the away end at Molineux.
Scenes of Violence
The sides were playing for a place in the Carabao Cup second round when the brutal scenes unfolded. Punches could be seen being furiously thrown, seemingly amongst Port Vale fans, as some supporters attempted to escape beyond stewards into vacant seating.
One punch-related conflict sparked further fans to join in, despite the presence of young children in the vicinity. Upon their arrival, police quickly broke up the violence as supporters continued to hurl abuse at each other.
Club Response
Port Vale have confirmed they are looking into the incident alongside their hosts on Friday evening. "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."
Match Result
Wolves came away 3-0 victors in the opening match of their season. The Championship side scored all three goals in the opening half as Adam Armstrong, Andre and Fer Lopez all got on the scoresheet.
Despite the defeat, Port Vale boss Jon Brady was pleased with his team's efforts. Brady wanted his team to be brave against the Premier League hopefuls.
"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."
Manager Reactions
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."
