Uefa charge Apollon and Dons over violent clashes

Aberdeen and Europa League opponents Apollon Limassol have both been hit with Uefa charges following the disturbances which marred the second leg of their third qualifying-round tie.

The Dons face two disciplinary charges over “crowd disturbances” and “no stewards travelling with supporters”, the latter in contravention of Uefa’s safety and security regulations.

The Cypriot team face three charges – “setting off of fireworks”, “throwing of objects” and “improper conduct of the team”.

Riot police moved into the awaysectionoftheaekarena in Larnaca as Aberdeen fans clashed with stewards after last Thursday’s 2-0 defeat sent their team out 3-2 on aggregate.

Flares were lit early in the second half in the home section, with one thrown and landing inside the goal behind Aberdeen keeper Joe Lewis. Television caught Swiss referee Stephan Klossner telling an official that he would abandon the match if the behaviour did not cease.

After the game, Aberdeen manager Derek Mcinnes said: “We expected it to be a wee bit volatile and plenty of passion from the side but it did boil over at times. I am hearing our fans got treated terribly as well by the stewards here, steaming in with flares and tear gas and everything else”

Aberdeen later announced they had begun an investigation into the fighting in the away section.

Uefa’s disciplinary body will deal with the case on 17 August.