Football Association Probe Crowd Trouble At Wolves' FA Cup Win Over West Brom

The Football Association has launched an investigation into the crowd trouble that marred Wolves' FA Cup victory over local rivals West Bromwich Albion after fans fought a bloody battle on Sunday. Play was halted by referee Thomas Bramall late in the second half at the Hawthorns when fans spilled onto the pitch as fighting broke out in one corner of the stadium. One supporter was escorted away with blood streaming from a head wound. West Midlands Police said two people were arrested after the disturbance and another was arrested prior to the match for possession of an offensive weapon, while a man was taken to hospital with head injuries.

Play resumed after a delay of 38 minutes and the final 12 minutes of Wolves' 2-0 win were finished with no further incidents.

"The disorder that occurred at the Black Country derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers is completely unacceptable," an FA statement said.

"Safety and security are of the utmost importance, and the behaviour of those involved is dangerous and inexcusable.

"We will be investigating these serious incidents alongside the clubs and the relevant authorities, and the appropriate action will be taken."

The ugly scenes came in the first meeting between the bitter rivals with fans allowed in 12 years.

Violence broke out on a large scale shortly after Matheus Cunha had given Wolves a two-goal lead in the 78th minute of the fourth-round clash.

West Brom hooligans appeared to attack Wolves fans who were sitting in a section of the Hawthorns reserved for home supporters.

Police and stewards rushed to the disturbance as missiles and punches were thrown at both ends of the ground.

'No-one wants to see that'

The teams left the pitch to return to the