EFC send officials to Kiev this week as decision over EL Tie

Uefa to decide if away game with Dynamo Kiev to be played behind closed doors



Everton FC are sending officials to Kiev this week ahead of their Europa League tie in the city later in the month.


The Blues have been drawn to face Dynamo Kiev in the last 16 of the competition.

Everton welcome the Ukrainian side to Goodison on March 12 before the return leg a week later and secretary Dave Harrison will fly over to Ukraine and liaise with UEFA and Dynamo Kiev on the fixture.

Uefa are set to meet this week in order to rule on whether the second leg in Kiev will be played behind closed doors.

Crowd trouble marred Dynamo’s last 32 second leg with Guingamp last week and they have been charged by the governing body with crowd disturbance, the throwing of fireworks and supporters entering the field of play.

If found guilty, Kiev could be forced to play their game with Everton in front of an empty stadium.

An Everton statement read: “Everton officials are visiting Kyiv this week ahead of the Club’s Round of 16 Europa League clash.

“The club is also keeping in contact with UEFA as they investigate the trouble that occurred during Dynamo Kyiv’s Round of 32 fixture against Guingamp last week.

“Everton would like to thank all supporters considering making the trip to Ukraine for their patience while we confirm details with Kyiv.

“We would like to stress again the importance of not booking travel until further information, particularly around ticket allocations, is available. We will make this information available at the earliest opportunity.”



By Phil Kirkbride