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2008-05-15 12:16:24
Rangers supporters in Manchester for the Uefa Cup final clashed with riot police after a big screen in the city centre broke down.
Officers came under attack after the screen in Piccadilly Gardens failed.
Forty-two people were arrested in the city, including six who were held after a Russian fan was stabbed inside the City of Manchester stadium.
An estimated 100,000 fans descended on the city to see the match, which Zenit St Petersburg won 2-0.
Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, said "the finger of blame" pointed at fans, rather than with one of the big screens breaking down.
"I think a small number of Rangers fans have let themselves down and they've let their city down," he said.
"I think it would be a real mistake for what was a very very small minority of Rangers fans to say that their behaviour can be excused by a technical problem with a screen.
"If we are going to put a finger of blame anywhere it has to be with those fans having to take responsibility for their own behaviour."
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Violence on the streets of Manchester - and the aftermath
He said there would be a full council inquiry into the failing of the Piccadilly Gardens screen.
The injured Russian fan was taken to hospital after he was attacked in a seated area of the stadium before the start of the game.
He was stabbed in the back but his injuries were not reported to be life threatening.
Six men, all believed to be Rangers fans, were arrested in connection with the incident, said Greater Manchester Police.
Groups of supporters clashed with police in Manchester city centre, where damage was caused to a bank, bus stops and a sports car which was bounced across a road.
A number of fans and at least 15 police officers - and a police dog - were hurt in the clashes.
Police injuries include a broken arm, a dislocated shoulder and cracked ribs. The dog suffered a serious cut to his paw. Fans suffered cuts and at least one was bitten.
'Really disappointed'
Assistant Chief Constable Justine Curran said the day had been "largely peaceful" with more than 100,000 fans behaving well in an atmosphere of "carnival and celebration".
"But I'm really disappointed that has been spoiled by pockets of disorder that have broken out in the city centre.
"A minority of thugs have overshadowed what should have been a great occasion.
"I've watched them commit damage, assault my officers and I'm really sickened and disappointed."
Manchester City Council had set up three special fan zones with big screens for ticketless fans to watch the match.