The Russian football league has been criticised after a trained bear was forced to perform tricks before a third division game.
The animal, named 'Tim', was led out on a leash ahead of the match between Mashuk-KMV and Angusht.
With a muzzle strapped over his face, he is then made by his handler to sit on his hind legs and make clapping motions towards the fans.
A football in then placed between the brown bear's front paws, which the referee then takes before starting the game.
The sickening scene is completed with Tim turning back to the supporters and clapping again, before the match begins.