West Brom charged by FA after Black Country derby crowd violence against Wolves

West Bromwich Albion have learned of an alleged charge from the Football Association for the crowd disorder that took place during their FA Cup Black Country derby with Wolves.

The two sides met at The Hawthorn’s in the fourth round of the FA Cup and play was halted for nearly 40 minutes. Trouble ensued in the stands with supporters spilling out on to the pitch with the officials ordering the players to retreat back to the dressing room.

It was the first derby match between the two sides played with supporters since 2012. The Premier League side won 2-0 thanks to goals from Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha.

A statement published by the FA on March 13 read: “West Bromwich Albion have been charged with misconduct in relation to crowd control following The FA Cup tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday 28 January. It’s alleged that the club failed to ensure its spectators and/or supporters conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and don’t behave in an improper, offensive, violent, threatening, abusive, indecent, insulting or proactive way.

“It’s also alleged that the club failed to ensure its spectators and/or supporters refrain from throwing missiles or other potentially harmful or dangerous objects towards the pitch. West Bromwich Albion have until Wednesday 20 March to provide their response to this charge.”

Trouble took place in the immediate aftermath of Cunha’s goal and police had to rush on to the pitch to calm the situation. A fan could be seen bloodied, where he required medical assistance. The match was televised on ITV1 sport with the unusual kick-off time of 11.45 am and the scenes weren’t shown by the broadcaster.