Ukraine football match interrupted by siren as players taken off

The match was suspended and the players were taken off shortly before half-time (Image: TWITTER)A football match in Ukraine between Shakhtar Donetsk and Oleksandriya was suspended on Saturday after an air alarm was sounded in the vicinity of the stadium. The game, which was taking place in Lviv, pitted the second and fourth-placed teams in the Ukrainian Premier League against each other in a potential early title decider but was halted shortly before the half-time whistle.The referee blew up with 40 minutes on the clock due to a siren that was heard in the surrounding area, indicating that missile attacks were possible. The players from both teams were then led down the tunnel and into a shelter, forcing the match to be delayed for a considerable length of time.Shakhtar confirmed that the game had been suspended with an update on their official Twitter account, which read: “Match interrupted due to air alarm in Lviv. The participants of the game proceeded to the shelter. Take care and find a safe place!”The Ukrainian Premier League kicked off earlier this season in spite of Russia’s ongoing invasion of the country, which has lasted for almost 10 months. However, the matches are being held without any fans in stadiums, while grounds have also been installed with shelters in case air sirens are heard.Ukraine’s sport minister Vadym Guttsait previously revealed that matches will have a military presence for security, as well as other safety provisions, in order to ensure that football can continue in spite of the war.”It is very important to resume playing football, like other national championships, in Ukraine,” he said. “We keep competing and cheering. We keep fighting and winning. Ukrainian sport will earn victory on all fronts and cannot be stopped from progressing.”MORE TO FOLLOWWe’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures, and video on this breaking news story.For the latest news and breaking news visit: /sportStay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion, and video on the stories that matter to you.Follow us on Twitter @DExpress_Sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real-time.We’re also on Facebook @DailyExpressSport – offering your must-see news, features, videos, and pictures throughout the day to like, comment, and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express, and Express.co.uk.