Dozens injured in fan violence at German third tier match

Dozens of people were injured in violence among fans during a German third division match between Hansa Rostock and Dynamo Dresden which was interrupted for half an hour due to the disturbances.

Rostock police said late Saturday that 13 officers were injured, five stadium staff as well, and that 33 people required treatment from paramedics at the arena.

The police statement did not mention any arrests.

Rostock fans had launched flares at Dresden players during the warm-up and also targeted Dresden fans in the first half.

The situation escalated at half-time when Dresden fans tried to break through a glas barrier and attack Rostock fans, which led to the delay of the second half until police had restored order.

A large police force of 1,300 was on hand to safeguard the high risk match.

Police said that various criminal offences were also recorded before the match, with three suspects identified.

The Rostock and Dresden clubs both condemned the incidentss.