Assistant referee Stefan Wittberg was struck on the head during the first half

The Irish Football Association has condemned the actions of a fan who threw a missile at an assistant referee at Windsor Park on Saturday.

Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifying win over Poland was held up for several minutes as Swede Stefan Wittberg received treatment to his head.

Northern Ireland could now face disciplinary action when Fifa receives the match delegate's report.

However, the IFA hopes it will be regarded as an "isolated incident."

A spokesman said: "The Irish Football Association condemn the actions of that individual. What happened was totally unacceptable.

"The individual was identified and evicted from the stadium at half-time. Appropriate action will now be taken.

"But this was an isolated incident. The Northern Ireland fans were fantastic at Windsor and gave the team great vocal backing.

"They are renowned throughout the world for their support home and away and this match was no exception."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version