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Ajax match abandoned after fans throw smoke bombs onto pitch

The Eredivisie match between Groningen and Ajax was abandoned today after home fans threw smoke bombs onto the pitch. 

Sunday’s game at the Euroborg Stadion was stopped just minutes after it started.

It resumed after a short delay, but smoke bombs were launched again, forcing the officials to abandon the match. 

The home supporters were thought to be protesting against the current state of affairs at the club. 

Groningen defender Jetro Willems was punched by one of his own fans during their home clash against Heerenveen in March.

Another one of their games was also suspended due to a cup of beer hitting an official.  

The Pride of the North were relegated to the second tier last week following their 1-1 draw at Go Ahead Eagles. 

They have been playing in the top flight for 23 years after gaining promotion in 1999/2000. 


Groningen began this season with Frank Wormuth as manager, but the German was dismissed in November after a series of disappointing results left them in 15th place. 

However, results have deteriorated even further under Dennis van der Ree, who has overseen just one victory.

He will leave his position at the end of the season, with Dick Lukkien set to take over. 

Ajax have also endured a disappointing campaign as they failed in their title defence.

This is a considerable drop in fortunes for the Dutch club, who have won the last three Eredivisie championships. 

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