Greek soccer league matches delayed for fear of violence

ATHENS, Greece (AP) - Greece's sports minister has postponed the start of top-tier soccer matches for more than two weeks due to fears of violence.

The Greek championship had been due to start Saturday but Stavros Kontonis says it will be delayed until "at least" Sept. 5.

In a statement Thursday, Kontonis said that police officials suggested the postponement, arguing that a festering squabble involving the Greek soccer federation, league organizers and clubs posed serious security concerns if matches went ahead.

Kontonis said there were fears that "the slightest excuse might trigger extensive violence" between fans.

Several clubs had threatened to abstain from the league games amid a dispute over how referees are chosen.

The soccer federation has accused Kontonis of meddling in its affairs.