Fifteen football fans were arrested following violent clashes between rival fans which marred a friendly match at Roots Hall.
Down and out - security staff tackle a man after clashes at Roots Hall Picture: MAXINE CLARKE
Police said fierce confrontations erupted between a small group of bitter rivals after Southend United and Colchester United drew 1-1 on Saturday.
Southend bosses are threatening to ban any fan arrested and police said they will seek football banning orders from the courts for those fans charged with any offence.
Football intelligence officer Det Con Richard Spooner said the trouble was sparked after a Colchester United supporter allegedly assaulted a steward in the ground.
He said: "As a result of that a number of Southend supporters left the stadium and stayed outside. There was a disturbance involving the pushing and shoving of police officers and verbal aggression directed towards officers."
Published Monday, August 4, 2003
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