Crowd trouble mars West Ham’s victory over Chelsea

WEST HAM have condemned the violent scenes which marred last night’s EFL Cup win over London rivals Chelsea at the former Olympic Stadium.

Skirmishes broke out towards the end of the Hammers’ impressive 2-1 fourthround win as police and stewards battled to maintain segregation behind the goal being defended by West Ham.

Coins, seats and other objects appeared to be thrown between rival supporters, with the Hammers indicating they will punish anyone identified as a perpetrator of trouble. A West Ham statement read: “West Ham United and London Stadium partners unreservedly condemn the behaviour of individuals involved in incidents during this evening’s fixture with Chelsea.

“Whilst quickly brought under control, the club, in line with its clear zero tolerance policy, will work closely with London Stadium 185, the Metropolitan Police Service and Chelsea to identify the individuals involved.

“Once identified, those found to have acted improperly will be banned from attending any West Ham United fixtures for life and we will request the courts serve banning orders to prevent these individuals attending any other football.”

A Chelsea spokesman said: “The club is extremely disappointed to see disturbances at the end of tonight’s game and we condemn such behaviour. I’m unable to comment further until tonight’s incidents have been investigated properly.”

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic wished to focus on the fine performance of his team and was frustrated at facing questions about the “unacceptable” behaviour of a minority. “I noticed it, of course,” Bilic said. “The game was on. I was more concentrated (on the game). I don’t know what happened. But whatever happened, we are totally against it as a club as a team. For those kind of things to happen, especially in England, is unacceptable.”

A Cheikhou Kouyate header before the break and a strike from Edimilson Fernandes early in the second half put West Ham in control before Gary Cahill pulled one back in injury time.

Meanwhile Sofiane Boufal marked his St Mary’s debut with a stunning strike to fire Southampton into the quarter-finals. The goal secured a 1-0 win over Sunderland, who had manager David Moyes sent to the stand for contesting the decision not to award his team a late penalty.