Sunday 2 October 2016 11:14, UK
The Rugby Football League is to investigate crowd trouble that marred the end of the Million Pound Game.
Fans of both Salford and Hull KR invaded the pitch at the Lightstream Stadium both at the end of 80 minutes and after golden-point extra time following the Red Devils' dramatic 19-18 win over Rovers that preserved their Super League status and condemned their opponents to relegation.
There were ugly scenes as fighting broke out and stewards attempted to control the melee before police flooded on to the field and restrained the alleged culprits.
"Games with so much at stake often mean emotions run high but that does not excuse the minority of fans who behaved unacceptably following the final whistle," said RFL chief executive Nigel Wood.
"The RFL will conduct a full investigation into these incidents and will work with the police and club involved to ensure anyone found to have acted violently is dealt with appropriately and also banned with immediate effect."
Both coaches criticised the concept of the Million Pound Game which could mean swingeing cuts for the relegated Rovers as they cope with around a £1m reduction in central funding but the format, which is in only its second year, looks sure to stay.
Wood added: "We would like to offer our congratulations to Salford Red Devils on winning the Million Pound Game and we look forward to watching them and newly-promoted Leigh Centurions playing in the competition in 2017.
"We would also like to pay tribute to Hull Kingston Rovers, their chairman, officials and fans for the dignified manner in which they accepted defeat.
"It is always an incredibly difficult time for any club, player, member of staff or fan when a team gets relegated and while the next few months will undoubtedly be difficult we are hopeful that they will rebuild and come back stronger next season.
"While relegation and promotion remains a part of our competition, and we believe it should, there are always going to be winners and losers.
"It isn't a nice situation, but it is the reality of sport and it is our job at the RFL to now make sure that the club, staff and players concerned are fully supported as best they can be."
Police are now appealing for more information on the crowd trouble, which saw two men arrested in the aftermath of the game.
Humberside Police match commander, Superintendent Tracey Bradley, said: "Officers quickly dealt with the disorder following the match, bringing the incident to an end within minutes.
"Violence and disorder will not be tolerated and arrests have already been made in connection with the incident.
"However, we would also appeal for anyone with information about the identities of those involved to get in touch."
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