INTERNATIONAL: The French Football Association has launched an investigation into crowd trouble at a Ligue 1 derby at the weekend. Kick-off to the match’s second half was delayed by more than half an hour after the pitch was stormed.

It should have been a great Saturday afternoon. The Ligue 1 derby was between RC Lens and Lille, but their fans just couldn’t keep themselves under control. It all started just before half-time, when Lens and Lille fans in the Tranin stand began throwing things at each other. Supporters from the Marek stand then ran onto the pitch, prompting action by riot police and stewards. When the game eventually resumed, some 50 riot police were posted in front of the Marek stand.

Crowd trouble has plagued France’s top league competition in recent weeks. Earlier this month, Nice were docked two points, after serious crowd trouble during their game against Marseille. The French government and Football Association have both launched investigations.

^{PHOTO: STILL PHOTOGRAPHS OF CROWD TROUBLE AT LIGUE 1 MATCH BETWEEN RC LENS AND LILLE / TWEET FROM FRENCH SPORTS MINISTER}