Violent confrontation at Oriel Park when Dundalk play Linfield in a European Cup preliminary round tie.
The European Champions Cup preliminary round first leg tie between Dundalk and Linfield was marred by violent clashes at Oriel Park. The violence on the terraces resulted in 25 people being arrested with many supporters and Garda officers injured.
The trouble between fans began when Linfield supporters at Oriel Park, tore down a tri-colour and set it alight. Stones were thrown by supporters from both sides and Gardaí were injured in the crossfire. Premises in Dundalk town were also damaged by the visiting Linfield supporters.
The European Football Association appears to put most of the blame for the disturbances on Linfield as they have been ordered to pay for the damage to Oriel Park.
Linfield were fined and ordered to pay for damage in Oriel Park and face a ban for European games at Windsor Park. Dundalk football club, for their part in the disturbances, were fined £800.
The game was played on 29 August 1979 and the result was Dundalk 1 Linfield 1.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 30 August 1979. The reporter is Don McManus.
