Rome Prefect cites fears for derby

Italian clubs Lazio and Roma could be forced to play the Rome derby behind closed doors in future due to escalating violence between rival fans, Rome Prefect Giuseppe Pecoraro has claimed. Monday evening’s 1-1 draw between the two sides was preceded by clashes between fans within the city – leading to several arrests and several minor stabbing incidents. Pecoraro has already stated evening kick-offs between the sides will no longer be permitted, but has warned he may have to act further to curb supporter confrontations. He told RaiSport1: "The preparations we’ll take will help to normalise the situation. "This will be a signal to the fans, and if it’s still not enough, then we will consider more drastic measures, such as playing behind closed doors or moving the game to another venue. "The problem is not within the stadium, but outside it. It would be very damaging to all the supporters," he added.