Lyon handed automatic win by Ligue 1 after clash with Bastia was axed following horror crowd trouble


LYON have been awarded a victory over bottom-placed Bastia after their Ligue 1 meeting in April was brought to a halt by crowd trouble.

The match in Corsica was finally cut short at half-time with the teams level at 0-0, the game having already been delayed by 55 minutes.

The shocking scenes were prompted in the pre-match warm-up when hundreds of Bastia supporters invaded the pitch and confronted Lyon players.


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The incident appeared to be sparked by an argument between Memphis Depay and a local ultra. And incredible footage also showed a home STEWARD attacking Lyon defender Mouctar Diakhaby.

Lyon staff member try to stop a supporter who invaded the pitch to clash with Depay
Lyon staff member try to stop a supporter who invaded the pitch to clash with Memphis Depay
A Bastia supporter fights with Lyon's player during the warm up
A Bastia supporter fights with Lyon players during the warm-up
Getty Images

The visitors initially refused to play after being caught up in the attack, but eventually agreed to start the match when order appeared to have been restored.

But all that changed after a fan ran onto the pitch during the half-time break towards Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes, who appeared furious.

Now Bastia must play their next three home matches behind closed doors at a neutral venue, while the club's fans will not be permitted to attend their next four away games.

The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) also banned Bastia director Anthony Agostini for six months.

Lyon's French-Portuguese defender Anthony Lopes is hold by security staff members prior
Lyon's Anthony Lopes is held by security staff as Bastia fans move in
Getty Images
There were scuffles before the game and again at half-time
There were scuffles before the game and again at half-time
Getty Images

In response to the LFP's investigation being launched, Bastia revealed plans to develop the Stade Armand Cesari to "maximise security".

Bastia are two points from safety with three rounds to play in Ligue 1. They have to travel to Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday and then Marseille, either side of hosting Lorient.

Fourth-placed Lyon host Nantes on Sunday looking to recover from their 4-1 midweek Europa League semi-final trouncing by Ajax.

 


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