MORE than 30 rival football fans clashed during a mass brawl in a Hampshire pub that left two men in hospital.
The ugly scenes broke out at 90 Degrees in Carlton Place, Southampton, just hours after fans watched Saints take on league leaders Chelsea at St Marys.
Concerned staff called 999 as violence flared, resulting in police arriving en masse and temporarily forcing the bar to close.
An investigation is now under way into what caused tensions to boil over – and who were the main culprits.
Officers believe many of those involved may have fled the scene and are urging them to come forward as they trawl CCTV footage to try and identify those involved.
A spokesman for the bar – which reopened after the scene was cleared – blamed rival football fans for the violence that marred a busy night in the bar.
Yesterday they took to Facebook to apologise to those caught up in the row who had been enjoying a drink when it happened.
The message said: “We would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused late afternoon yesterday, when Chelsea and Southampton supporters clashed, but a big thank you to all those that returned to the establishment for our usual Sunday Funday and our usual great atmosphere.”
The manager, who did not want to be named, told the Daily Echo: “The minute something like this kicks off the police are always called.
“They came and dealt with it and people were dispersed. We take these incidents very seriously.”
He confirmed that no members of staff were injured and no damage was caused to the premises.
Police said the bar was shut for 30 minutes while investigations were carried out and the two injured men were given medical treatment.
They are now appealing for witnesses to the fight, which broke out at around 7.20pm on Sunday, to come forward with information.
A spokesman said: “This investigation is currently ongoing and officers will be reviewing CCTV to identify those involved and potential witnesses.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Southampton CID on 101.
