Protesters disrupt Ireland v Austria match amid calls to boycott Israel fixture

A Nations League match between Ireland and Austria was briefly halted on Thursday after protesters threw tennis balls bearing Palestinian flags onto the pitch. Referee Allard Lindhout stopped play for a hydration break once the balls landed on the grass, with Ireland leading 1-0 after 19 minutes.

Troy Parrott had put Ireland ahead in the 12th minute with a solo goal, dribbling past two defenders before scoring through the goalkeeper's legs. Play resumed after a four-minute stoppage, with Austria pushing forward before Parrott doubled Ireland's lead from a penalty, the ball going in off the post before half-time.

Earlier in the match, a man attempted to run onto the pitch but was intercepted by stewards. Irish broadcaster RTE reported that he was carrying a Palestinian flag.

Demonstrations also took place outside the stadium before kickoff, linked to Israel's actions in Gaza. A small group from the Stop the Game campaign gathered near the venue, displaying a Palestinian flag and banners supporting Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, who had announced on Saturday that he would not play in either of Ireland's matches against Israel.

The Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign also organised protests outside the stadium and in other locations across the country. Campaigners are urging Ireland to boycott its remaining Nations League fixture against Israel, officially Ireland's home game, which is scheduled to be played without spectators in Backa Topola, Serbia, on Sunday.