Football: All off in Albania

Albania's politically-charged league title decider between Flamurtari of Vlore and Tirana was abandoned 30 minutes from time yesterday when Flamurtari players walked off in protest against a disallowed penalty. Tirana, who trailed the leaders Flamurtari by two points going into the game, were 1-0 ahead at the time.

The southern port of Vlore was the cradle for violent protests against the Tirana government earlier this year, which led to new elections and President Sali Berisha's resignation last month.

The match suspension prompted reaction from both sides, with Flamurtari supporters shouting "Vlore, Vlore" and Tirana fans chanting "Down with rebels, down with communists."

Police stepped in as some Flamurtari fans smashed windows and chairs in Tirana's Qemal Stafa stadium. There were at least four arrests and Flamurtari players left the stadium under a police escort.

The Albanian league, which was suspended in February due to armed unrest in the country, resumed 10 days ago.