Violent scenes break out at Black Country derby as game halted with West Brom facing FA punishment

West Brom face punishment after crowd disorder and violent scenes erupted at the FA Cup tie against rivals Wolves on Sunday (January 28). Play in the Black Country derby at The Hawthorns was halted for more than half an hour after trouble flared in the stands and fans spilled onto the pitch.

West Midlands Police confirmed arrests were made following the second-half disturbances and one person was taken to hospital with head injuries.

There were reports of fans clashing with police and some West Brom players were concerned about family members sitting close to the trouble. At least one, Kyle Bartley, went into the crowd to get children out.

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Baggies manager Carlos Corberan later confirmed no players’ family members were hurt but the violent unrest, into which the Football Association swiftly launched an investigation, completely overshadowed the contest.

The FA issued a strong statement on the trouble that read: “The disorder that occurred at the Black Country derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers is completely unacceptable. 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.”

Emotions had been running high throughout the match, which was the first between the neighbouring clubs in front of spectators since 2012. The tensions spilled over shortly after Matheus Cunha fired Premier League Wolves into a 2-0 lead and effectively settled the fourth-round tie 12 minutes from time.

A statement from the home club read: “West Bromwich