A SUNDERLAND AFC fan broke bones in a rival NUFC supporter’s face when violence erupted at a screening of a derby match.
Richard Colwell left Newcastle fan Tristen Francis with a fractured eye socket and a broken nose, when trouble broke out at the Whitburn & Marsden Social Club.
Newcastle Crown Court heard the 32-year old attacker then turned his violence on Mr Francis’ wife Amanda, leaving her with two black eyes from a punch in the face.
Prosecutor Kirsten Mercer told the court Mr Francis had been at the club with relatives and friends watching on Sunday, March 4, last year.
It was as the group started to leave, following the 1-1 draw, the trouble broke out, despite some of Mr Francis’ party shaking hands with rival fans.
Ms Mercer said: “The final whistle blew and the men began to leave, but shook hands with some Sunderland supporters to demonstrate no hard feelings.”
The court heard as the men walked out of the club an argument started and the violence erupted.
Ms Mercer added: “The defendant grabbed and punched Tristen Francis with a clenched fist.”
Mrs Francis, who then lived within the grounds of the club, stepped out of her home to see what was going on .
“She was standing in the doorway,” said Ms Mercer.
“She was punched to the head, above her left eyebrow, by the defendant.
“The defendant then punched Tristen Francis to the face, causing him to fall to the ground.”
The court heard Mr Francis was taken to hospital by ambulance after the attack.
The couple have now moved from the village.
Colwell, of Wellands Lane, Whitburn, admitted two charges of assault.
The court heard he had suffered injuries including a black eye, swelling and grazing during the trouble.
Recorder Christopher Williams sentenced Colwell to 15 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, with 120 hours unpaid work and £2,000 compensation to Mr Francis.
The judge said Colwell’s guilty plea and otherwise positive character meant the jail term could be suspended.
He said: “This court can take the view you ought not lose your liberty immediately today.”
John Wilkinson, defending, said Colwell has shown real remorse for what happened, has work as a trainee metal machinist and family responsibilities.
Mr Wilkinson added: “He will not