Fighting fans spoil Monk’s maiden win

RUDY GESTEDE, who scored just once in an unhappy first eight months on Teesside, got the headed winner against Sheffield United, and a standing ovation from the Boro fans. Saturday’s victory calmed some nerves around the Riverside, where Garry Monk, the new manager, is expected to deliver promotion after being given £45million for transfers by owner Steve Gibson. But Boro were fortunate to emerge with three points after defender Dael Fry headed into his own goal in stoppage time, only for a linesman to raise his flag — incorrectly — and rule the goal out. That sparked ugly scenes inside the stadium which spilled over into a car park outside of the ground. More than 200 fans were involved and five arrests were made. Children as young as 10 were caught up in the clashes. Assistant chief constable Jason Harwin of Cleveland Police said: ‘It’s terrifying for children to witness such violence, or be innocently embroiled in it as their parents frantically try to keep them safe. ‘Unfortunately a small minority of people behave in a manner which puts innocent fans at risk.’