Manchester City v Manchester United
Manchester City fans bombard United players with objects
The home fans threw lighters and a bottle of water at Fred as he went to take a corner. Manchester City are also investigating racist gestures made by home fans.
Manchester City fans threw lighters and at least one bottle of water at Manchester United players as they went to take a corner in the second half of the Manchester derby this Saturday afternoon.
City players ask fans to stop throwing objects
Visitors United were leading 2-0 at the time of the corner. Fred was struck on the back of the neck by an item, but was unhurt and after taking a moment to recover from the shock went to take the corner.
The Manchester City fans went over to the section of the crowd to plead with them to stop throwing items. TV images showed three lighters and a bottle of water by the corner flag.
Manchester City investigate racist gestures
A video circulating on social media during the game showed a City supporter making racist gestures at United's players. Manchester City released a statement just after the game, reading as follows:
Manchester City FC are aware of a video circulating on social media which appears to show a supporter making racial gestures during the second half of the match against Manchester United this evening.
Officials from the Club are working with Greater Manchester Police in order to help them identify any individuals concerned and assist with their enquiries.
The Club are also working with GMP regarding an instance of objects being thrown onto the field of play.
The Club operates a zero tolerance policy regarding discrimination of any kind, and anyone found guilty of racial abuse will be banned from the club for life.
Anti-racism and discrimination organisation Kick It Out tweeted: “We have been inundated with reports of alleged racist abuse from a number of individuals during this evening’s Manchester derby,
“We will be contacting both clubs to offer our support and hope swift action is taken to identify the offenders.”
The body’s head of development, Troy Townsend, added on his account: “The evidence is clear for all to see. Let's not make excuses again."