Bundesliga clash delayed by nearly an HOUR in row over ultras’ banners as stadium announcer begs for help
EINTRACHT FRANKFURT’s Bundesliga clash with VfL Bochum was delayed by 50 minutes following a dispute between ultras and security staff.
The Europa League quarter-finalists were due to take on hosts VfL Bochum at 2:30pm UK time.
Eintracht Frankfurt banners were deemed to cover emergency exits[/caption]
Officials pleaded with the Eintracht supporters[/caption]
The match was delayed, however, due to an issue with the Eintracht Frankfurt fans’ banners.
Stadium security determined that the banners were blocking emergency exits.
This was therefore deemed a safety hazard, thus preventing the game from being able to kick-off.
Players were sent back to their dressing rooms as staff pleaded with fans to take the banners down.
A stadium announcement warned supporters that the game would not be able to take place if the banners remained in place.
The tannoy announcer stressed: “That isn’t in your interests or ours.”
Following extensive talks the banners were finally taken down.
Players were then able to re-emerge for a second full warm-up, with the game finally kicking off 50 minutes late.
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In December, VfL Bochum’s clash with Union Berlin was mired with controversy.
The game initially finished 1-1, with outfielder Philipp Hofmann having to go in goal after stopper Patrick Drewes felt unable to continue after being struck by a lighter from the crowd.
Bochum chiefs opted to appeal the referee’s decision to resume the match.
The German football federation’s sports court accepted their case and awarded them a 2-0 victory.
Head of the court Stefan Oberholz claimed that they had “no other choice”.
Eintracht raced into a 2-0 half-time lead in today’s match.
Rasmus Kristensen put them one up in the 27th minute, with Jean-Matteo Bahoya doubling their advantage shortly after the half hour.
Eintracht Frankfurt raced into a 2-0 lead at VfL Bochum[/caption]
