More trouble with volatile Beitar fans

Beitar Jerusalem’s first training session was overshadowed on Monday by violent scenes at Bayit Vegan.

By ALLON SINAI
Beitar Jerusalem players 521 (photo credit: Asaf Kliger)
Beitar Jerusalem players 521
(photo credit: Asaf Kliger)
Beitar Jerusalem’s first training session ahead of the 2013/14 season was overshadowed on Monday by violent scenes at Bayit Vegan.
Around 3,000 fans attended what is usually a celebratory occasion and the vast majority cheered the depleted squad, which is still being rebuilt by incoming owner Eli Tabib, who is set to officially be approved as the club’s new boss this week.
However, after the players returned to the dressing room, a group of fans swore, spat and threw rocks at ’keeper Ariel Harush and midfielder Dario Fernandez, attacking them for their support of Chechen Muslims Dzhabrail Kadiyev and Zaur Sadayev last season.
Harush and Fernandez required a police escort to leave the complex, with the Argentinian seriously considering leaving the club due to the incident.
“Beitar Jerusalem strongly condemns the violence of part of the team’s fans towards Ariel Harush and Dario Fernandez,” a club press release read.
“We are appalled at the [treatment] towards the two players.
Such behavior has no place in sport or any other aspect of life.
The club supports Harush and Fernandez who have been a symbol of loyalty and professionalism throughout their time at Beitar.”