(Reuters) – The English League One (third-tier) game between Reading and Port Vale was suspended on Saturday after home fans ran onto the pitch in a protest against the club’s ownership.
A large group of Reading supporters invaded the pitch 16 minutes into the match and waved a flag saying “Dai Yongge out”.
Reading owner Yongge, in charge since 2017, has come under criticism after the club were hit with a number of penalties for financial mismanagement, including a four-point deduction this season for a late payment of the monthly wage bill.
Play was also paused in the first minute after tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch, Port Vale said on social media platform X.
“We are fully aware of and understand our supporters’ frustrations,” Reading posted on X.
“But we must reiterate … that entering or throwing items onto the pitch can put the fixture at risk of abandonment and can result in personal consequences including banning orders. Thank you for your support today.”
The game was goalless at the time of suspension.
“Both sets of team staff and players wish to get today’s game played to a conclusion,” Reading said. “This is the last chance to get the game restarted the club can face serious sanctions if the pitch is not cleared.”
Reading, who were relegated in 2023 after 10 years in the second-tier Championship, have been deducted 16 points in under two years.
They are 21st in the standings on 23 points from 25 matches.
(Reporting by Anita Kobylinska in Gdansk, editing by Ed Osmond)
Disclaimer: This report is auto generated from the Reuters news service. ThePrint holds no responsibilty for its content.