Uruguay players defend decision to enter crowd to protect families

Uruguay striker Luis Surez defended his teammates' decision to enter the stands following a 1-0 loss to Colombia in the Copa America semifinals, saying the action was necessary to defend families and supporters.

After a physical and emotional game that included seven yellow cards and one red card, players exchanged words and shoves at midfield of Bank of America Stadium on Wednesday night.

Uruguay players, including Darwin Nez, noticed an altercation behind the team's bench and about a dozen or so players then climbed into the stands as the melee continued.

Some players were seen throwing punches before Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officers and stadium security restored order after about 10 minutes.

Obviously when one has your woman, your little child, your father, elderly people you want to go and see if they're OK, Surez said.

Here these things, it's an image that no one wants to have created but obviously if someone is attacking your family you want to go and defend them. But t