Tuesday 12 August 2014 09:06, UK
Widnes have spoken of their shame at the “sickening” crowd trouble involving some of their fans following the Challenge Cup semi-final defeat by Castleford.
The Vikings have also vowed to co-operate with the Rugby Football League in an investigation into the trouble.
Supporters from the Vikings end of the stadium invaded the pitch after full-time at Leigh Sports Village and approached the Tigers fans, with some violence occurring as police and stewards attempted to restore order.
Some of the scenes were captured on social media, including the head being removed from one of the Tigers’ mascots and kicked away.
The club's recruitment drive for next season has been put on hold until such time that we can establish the full cost to the club for today's actions.
Widnes chief executive James Rule said: "It's sickening to see such shameful scenes perpetrated by a minority of 'supporters'.
"We will now work closely with RFL and police and carry out a full investigation.
"The club's recruitment drive for next season has been put on hold until such time that we can establish the full cost to the club for today's actions.
"We will work fully with the RFL and the BBC to identify each and every individual that brought shame to the good name of our club."
The RFL is awaiting reports from all relevant parties before deciding on its course of action.
The governing body's chief executive Nigel Wood said: "The sport has every right to be disappointed with the behaviour of a minority of Widnes fans. We will work with the clubs to identify any supporters who encroached onto the pitch. There is no place for such behaviour in rugby league."
In the game, Castleford eased to a 28-6 victory to earn a first trip to Wembley since 1992, where they will face West Yorkshire rivals Leeds.
