VIDEO: Linesman hit by flare at Villa-Spurs match
An assistant referee was struck by a firework thrown from a section of Tottenham supporters during the London side’s Barclays Premier League game at Aston Villa.
David Bryan, who was running the line in front of the Spurs fans located in the Doug Ellis Stand, was hit by a flare or smoke bomb thrown after Andros Townsend opened the scoring in the first half.
The restart after the 31st-minute goal was delayed after the incident but Bryan, who appeared to have been hit on the back of the neck, was fit to continue.
The Football Association and the Premier League, who have issued warnings about flares this season, are likely to investigate.
The incident was captured by a television camera.
West Midlands Police confirmed two men had been arrested in relation to the incident.
Police have arrested 2 men after a lit flare was thrown on the pitch during the Villa v Spurs game - the flare hit a linesman #avfc #thfc
— West Midlands Police (@WMPolice) October 20, 2013
The two men aged 25 and 47 were arrested following the incident at Villa Park, fortunately the linesman wasn't injured #avfc #thfc
— West Midlands Police (@WMPolice) October 20, 2013
