ENGLAND Under 21s reached the semi-finals of the European Championships but the 2-0 victory over Serbia was scarred by racism and violence.

Leroy Lita had headed Stuart Pearce's youngsters ahead early on before UEFA officials were forced into an impromptu anti-racism announcement after Serbia fans abused Nedum Onuoha.

Matt Derbyshire added a second goal 13 minutes from full-time in Nijmegen but his celebrations in front of the Serbia fans sparked a mass brawl which involved most of the players. Tom Huddlestone was then sent off for dissent in the final minute.

UEFA will wait until the match delegate hands in his report, by which time England will be preparing for this week's semi-final.

They are now within sight of winning England's first age-group trophy since Sol Campbell and Gary Neville were among the under-18s to win back in 1993.

Standing in their way of the final are holders and hosts Holland, who they defeated in a friendly last November in Alkmaar. That win is part of an unbeaten stretch since 2005 that now stands at 12 games.