Hampshire police and Portsmouth FC investigate after Sunderland defender Luke O’Nien is reportedly hit by a fan during League One play-off semi-final at Fratton Park

HAMPSHIRE police have confirmed they are investigating after a Sunderland defender was reportedly attacked by a fan during a match at Fratton Park last night.
ron Melton
By ron Melton
Published 18th May 2019, 11:05 BST
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It is believed Luke O’Nien was struck by a Portsmouth supporter after tumbling beyond the hoardings of the North Stand lower tier in the second half of the League One play-off semi-final second leg.

The right-back said Hampshire police spoke to him after the game, but added he would not be pressing charges. No arrests have yet been made.

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A spokesman for Portsmouth Football Club said: ‘Portsmouth Football Club are working with local police on an ongoing investigation.’

Sunderland defender Luke O'Nien pictured behind the boarding at Fratton Park in the second-leg play-off clash against Portsmouth last night. Picture: Joe PeplerSunderland defender Luke O'Nien pictured behind the boarding at Fratton Park in the second-leg play-off clash against Portsmouth last night. Picture: Joe Pepler
Sunderland defender Luke O'Nien pictured behind the boarding at Fratton Park in the second-leg play-off clash against Portsmouth last night. Picture: Joe Pepler

It was reported a fan was ejected from Fratton Park after the incident, which saw Sunderland players Lee Cattermole and Grant Leadbitter leap to Luke O’Nien’s defence.

The match ended in a goalless draw, but Portsmouth’s Championship promotion hopes were dashed after Sunderland won the tie on aggregate after a previous 1-0 win.

Anyone with information on the incident should call police on 101, quoting the crime reference number 44190169464.