UEFA opens investigation after ref is left bloodied

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UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Austrian club Sturm Graz after an assistant referee's head was cut open in their Europa League tie against Cypriot side AEK Larnaca.

The match in Austria was suspended for a half-hour Thursday after a drinks cup thrown from the stands hit an assistant referee on the head.

Swedish referee Mohammed Al-Hakim interrupted the game between Sturm Graz and AEK Larnaca following the incident in the 78th minute, which happened shortly after Ivan Trickovski’s goal gave the Cypriot visitors a 2-0 lead.

Al-Hakim sent both teams off the field before they returned to finish the match without further incidents or goals.

The assistant referee, Fredrik Klyver, fell to the ground after being hit by the powerful throw. He did not continue the game and walked off the field with his head heavily bandaged. It was not immediately clear what material the cup was made of.

Assistant referee Fredrik Klyver (R) lies on the field after being hit by a cup. /VCG Photo

Police say they arrested a fan – whose team was not specified – after studying TV footage of the incident.

UEFA has charged Sturm Graz under regulations relating to the "improper conduct of supporters" and this case will be dealt with by European football's governing body on August 17.

"We are sorry that today we have disappointed many football fans," read a statement released by Sturm Graz after the incident.

"This damages the reputation of football and us as a club. We always try to see football as a positive celebration and to tackle these things exactly. Fair play is our top priority."

(With input from agencies)