THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
LISBON, Portugal — Riot police fired warning shots into the air to keep angry Sporting Lisbon fans at bay after the team’s fourth draw in nine games left it in seventh place in the Portuguese league.
Around 200 Sporting fans gathered outside the Jose Alvalade stadium late Sunday after a 1-1 draw at home to Maritimo.
Police stopped the supporters from forcing their way into an area reserved for officials, coaching staff and players.
The fans then threw stones and bottles at police who responded with shotgun blasts into the air, authorities said.
Sporting, one of Portugal’s three big clubs along with Porto and Benfica, has made its worst start in 18 years, taking 13 points from a possible 27. Fans have demanded the resignation of coach Paulo Bento.