Police probe into violence scenes at FA Cup match

Atherstone Town have apologised to Barrow AFC after visiting fans were attacked at the Warwickshire’s side’s Sheepy Road ground on Saturday.

Atherstone blamed a minority of “mindless idiots” for the trouble, which included scuffles between home supporters and visiting players. Flares are also reported to have been thrown into the visitors’ section of the ground, a flag was set on fire, and an elderly man was punched in the face.

In a statement posted on Atherstone’s official website, the club, which lost the third qualifying round tie 4-0, said: “We unreservedly apologise to any fan who had to witness the totally unacceptable scenes and behaviour.”