March 12 – English Premier League club West Ham United face serious sanctions after a number of fans invaded the pitch during Saturday’s crushing home defeat by Burnley that sent the London club closer towards the relegation zone.
At least two fans went on to the pitch at London Stadium after Burnley took the lead – with one approaching West Ham captain Mark Noble. Another fan ran on with a corner flag shortly after Burnley scored their second goal, with further incursions after the visitors struck a late third.
Police said there were four separate pitch invasions and that they have received two allegations of assault which they said are being investigated. Burnley substitutes even allowed some children caught up in the protests to sit on the bench towards the end of the match such was the concern.
Noble described the atmosphere at London Stadium as “horrible”, while BBC commentator John Motson said it had been “the most scary moment” he had ever experienced at a football ground.
Manager David Moyes urged the club’s fans to get behind the team. “We want the supporters behind us, but you can’t cross the line and come on to the pitch,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve been at football games in my time where I’ve seen that.”
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