English Premiership Better Off Without Old Firm!

Last updated : 15 May 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
Police chiefs said they were "sickened and disappointed" after hours of violence following the UEFA Cup final marred what should have been a proud night for British football.

Across Manchester centre streets were strewn with rubbish, cans of beer and broken glass after 100,000 Rangers fans descended on Manchester for the big game against Russian side Zenit St Petersburg.

An army of council workers will begin moving the mountains of rubbish - but the Rangers' fans own reputation, and that of the city's for hosting events - may take longer to clean up.

Police chiefs expressed their disappointment after violent clashes between fans and riot police marred Rangers' attempt to become the first Scottish club to win a European trophy in 25 years.

An underwhelming performance saw the Glasgow side lose 2-0.

Six men, believed to be Rangers supporters, were arrested after a Russian supporter was stabbed inside the stadium.

For hours after the match the centre of the city was a battleground of running battles between Scots supporters and riot police.

Assistant Chief Constable Justine Curran of Greater Manchester Police said: "A minority of thugs have overshadowed what should have been a great occasion."

She added: "I've watched them commit damage, assault my officers and I'm really sickened and disappointed."