Ballboy hospitalised after shocking fan violence

A ballboy has been hospitalised after violent clashes between rival fans at a football match in Cyprus.

Limassol AEL's match against fierce rivals APOEL Nicosia descended into chaos late in the first half when the youngster was hit by a firecracker thrown from the crowd.

The referee immediately halted play at the Tsirion Stadium as an ambulance rushed onto the field and transported the boy to hospital.

The nasty incident was followed by more fire crackers and missiles being hurled onto the field by Apoel supporters, which saw players and officials head to the dressing rooms.

The match later resumed but more violence saw police in riot gear stop proceedings as fans clashed on the edge of the pitch.

After a delay of more then an hour the match was finally finished, with most fans having already left.