Probe after trouble mars final

AN INVESTIGATION is to be launched into crowd trouble which marred the final of yesterday's Image Printers Cup in the Borders.

The referee held up play after the hour mark as punches were thrown between supporters and officials of East of Scotland League sides Gretna 2008 and Vale of Leithen.

The tie was goal-less when a Gretna supporter emerged from the main stand at Hawick's Albert Park and made in the direction of Vale manager Rab Paget.

Fourth official Andy Rooney and substitute John Hall had to wrestle the fan before he was led away.

Angry scenes followed as officials and supporters from both teams clashed.

Following the final, which Gretna won 2-0 through late goals from John Jardine and Daniel Jeffrey, Vale manager Paget said: "These things unfortunately happen sometimes with football. I don't think it was anything more than handbags to start with but it started to get out of control."

A crowd of almost 500 attended Albert Park to watch the final.

East of Scotland FA officials will hold a meeting next month to discuss the incident.