Vienna matches to be played without fans due to clashes

Austrian Bundesliga rivals Rapid Vienna and Austria Vienna have agreed to play their next four home matches without away fans, following violent incidents during their last match that left at least 13 people injured. The clubs said in a joint statement that the move was aimed at ensuring the safety of fans, with a view to bringing back visiting fans in the future after taking the necessary measures. League leaders Rapid Vienna said the move was necessary to prevent further violence, adding that "violence has no place in sport." Vienna police said the clashes began with fireworks being set off before the match and escalated into a pitch invasion after the final whistle, with video footage showing a group of masked men on the pitch holding sticks amid rising smoke. Police said 10 officers were injured and 152 people were charged with criminal offences. Rapid Vienna won the match 2-1 against Austria Vienna, who are sixth in the league.