Derbies are always a heated affair. So also the Asturian on Saturday evening between Sporting Gijon and Real Oviedo in Spain’s second highest league. But what happens there following the final whistle is unbelievable.
Oviedo prevails 1-0 and celebrates the victory. Goalie Joan Femenias is particularly happy regarding the three points. He does that in front of the opposing home fans. Too much provocation for the Gijon players. The frustration regarding the bankruptcy has to come out, they take it out on Fermenias. The goalie is put through the wringer, receives several bumps and punches. Only a member of the coaching staff can prevent worse and separate the brawlers.
“I just celebrated the victory”
“They wanted to celebrate the victory in front of our Ultras and we didn’t accept that,” Gijon central defender Jean-Sylvain Babin explains the argument. Victim Fermenias sees it differently: “I just celebrated the victory. I raised my fist without making any gesture that might offend anyone when I felt a shove from behind.”
Immediately following the riot, the referee showed two Gijon players red cards. It is still unclear whether the whole thing will have further consequences. (bir)
