A police officer has been injured and a Europa League match in Derry paused after disorder involving rival supporters.

Trouble broke out in the Bishop Street area around 6.45pm, an hour before kick-off, between fans of Derry City and Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia.

The officer required hospital treatment, police said.

During the second half of the fixture, which CSKA Sofia won 2-1, further disorder erupted in the stands, leading to a 14-minute stoppage.

At the request of Derry City Football Club, police officers were deployed inside the stadium to restore calm and allow the match to continue.

PSNI chief inspector Graeme Craig said families and young children had sought refuge on the pitch because of the behaviour of a small number of individuals.

He described the disruption to an important sporting fixture as disappointing and condemned the actions.

Police maintained a presence in the area after the match and have appealed for witnesses to contact them on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.