Sunderland qualified for the League 1 play-off final after drawing 0-0 away to Portsmouth at Fratton Park to go through 1-0 on aggregate. However, the game was overshadowed by a very ugly incident.

In the 61st minute, after tussling for the ball with Tom Naylor by the far touchline, Sunderland's Luke O'Nien ended up going over the advertising hoardings and landed in the first row of the stand. This is a regular occurence at Fratton Park as the fans are very close to action. However, one fan, in a grey hoodie decided to kick the Sunderland man while he was on the floor and even aimed a punch at him.

May 16, 2019

The away players were furious with the supporter's behaviour and Lee Cattermole amongst others went to confront him. Shortly afterwards, referee Peter Bankes, went over to calm things down and he reported the incident to the fourth official who in turn told the stewards. Other fans were also seen shouting at and abusing the Sunderland players although they did not make any physical contact with the footballer.

Three minutes later, police were seen in the area where the incident occurred. Although O'Nien was able to continue the game without requiring any medical attention, the incident was spotted by fans who were quick to condemn the spectator on social media.

Luke O'nien

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