Flailing fists replaced dessert as two footballing sides took to fighting in the streets of Rome in September 1970. FIFA president Sir Stanley Raus was prompted to demand a report after an off-field dash between Lazio and Arsenal players and officials. Ill feeling from a drawn Fairs Cup game spilled over at a post-match banquet. It never emerged which remark started the melee, but dozens were involved. Onlookers alleged even mild-mannered Arsenal manager Bertie Mee grabbed his Italian counterpart by the lapels and threw a punch. Arsenal went on to progress in the competition with a 2-0 home win.
Arsenal’s John Roberts challenges Lazio’s Giorgio Chinaglia during the extremely heated tussle between the two teams.