TEMPO.CO, Surabaya - Fan violence erupted at Persebaya Surabaya match against Kalteng Putra that ended 1-0 to the visiting team in the round of 16 Group G of Liga 2 at Bung Tomo Stadium on October 12. The violence allegedly caused by provocative gestures at the home fans at the end of the game.
Minutes before the match ended, Kalteng Putra officials celebrated their win before the VIP box, sparking outrage among Persebaya fans, also known as Bonek. Those sitting in the west stand threw water bottles toward the visiting team bench.
A riot ensued as the referee blew the final whistle. Bonek invaded the pitch and hurled bottles at security officers. Anger grew as they vandalize property and match facility. Violence receded after cops entered the stadium.
Persebaya board has expressed regrets for the incident. They said that Kalteng Putra officials provoked home fans.
“We don’t want to defend ourselves. We just regret the antics,” Persebaya Media Officer Rocky Maghbal said after the match.
The incident does not help Persebaya diehard fan in their effort to improve their image. Even more so because earlier in the same day, Bonek declared a peace agreement with local pencak silat dojo PSHT following a clash that killed the latter’s members.
NUR HADI