Manchester, England - Greater Manchester Police were continuing their investigations Thursday into violence that marred the previous evening's UEFA Cup final between Zenit St Petersburg and Glasgow Rangers, which resulted in 42 arrests and one stabbing. The main trouble occurred in Piccadilly Gardens area of Manchester city centre when Rangers supporters held pitched battles with hundreds of riot police after a big screen showing the match failed.
Violence broke out around 15 minutes before kick-off when the screen began being pelted with bottles and lasted for around five hours.
"A minority of thugs have overshadowed what should have been a great occasion," Assistant Chief Constable Justine Curran of Greater Manchester Police said.
"I have watched them commit damage, assault my officers and I'm really sickened and disappointed."
Six people, all believed to be Rangers fans, were also arrested after a Russian fan was stabbed inside the City of Manchester stadium where Zenit clinched their first European trophy with a 2-0 win.
The injured Russian fan was taken to hospital after he was stabbed in the back in a seated area of the stadium before the start of the game.
"Six Rangers supporters were arrested at the stadium after a Russian fan was stabbed in the back prior to kick-off. His injuries are not life-threatening," said Curran.
According to reports, 15 police officers and a police dog were injured in the disturbances while ambulance crews also came under attack.
