Ball boy injured after ‘exploding device’ thrown onto pitch during EFL match

The match took place on Sunday

The sides played out a 1-1 draw, with goals scored Leo Scienza and Ebou Adams, but the high-profile Championship clash will be best remembered for actions allegedly made by a number of fans in attendance.

Communicating after full-time, Portsmouth confirmed that devices were thrown towards the pitch, and that "distressingly, one of these devices loudly exploded, leaving one of our young ball retrievers requiring medical treatment, as well as a member of staff suffering from burns."

Per the BBC, local police are investigating several incidents, including one that left a ball boy with a cut lip.

They also report that three people were arrested and one man was charged in relation to incidents during the match.

Describing the incidents via an official club statement, Portsmouth began: "Portsmouth Football Club would like to thank supporters who attended Sunday’s south coast derby at Fratton Park and created such a passionate and vibrant atmosphere to spur on their team.

"The vast majority of those present enjoyed the intense and fervent local rivalry and the fans were outstanding," they added.

On the alleged incident: "However, there were unfortunately a number in attendance who committed criminal offences and now face consequences both for themselves and, potentially, for the football club as well.

"Disappointingly, these offences included supporters encroaching onto the pitch, with one individual having already been charged and bailed to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court in March. Two further arrests have also been made.

"There were also several incidents of missiles and pyrotechnic devices irresponsibly being thrown from the stands onto the pitch – a criminal act and one which endangers safety. 

"Most distressingly, one of these devices loudly exploded, leaving one of our young ball retrievers requiring medical treatment, as well as a member of staff suffering from burns."

Both the Championship outfit and police are said to be reviewing CCTV in order to identify all of those who are responsible.

Portsmouth added: "We will not tolerate any future such behaviour and any spectator(s) identified as having encroached onto the pitch or having thrown missiles, either on Sunday or at any future match, will be subject to a significant club sanction, as well as a potential criminal investigation and a football banning order."

It remains to be seen what further action is taken in coming days.