January 11 – Safety officers have joined the English FA in investigating claims of crushing and overcrowding in Newcastle’s FA Cup third round upset at Sheffield Wednesday last weekend.
The government’s sports stadium safety regulator (SGSA) has announced a review into complaints after footage on social media showed congestion around the exit to the tunnel at the end of the ground where 4,500 Newcastle fans were housed.
Fans described being caught in a crush in the narrow concourse prior to kick-off, with children left in tears.
There were no immediate reports of injuries but Hillsborough is still associated with the scene of Britain’s worst sporting disaster when 96 Liverpool supporters were crushed to death in an over-crowded and fenced-in enclosure before an FA Cup semi-final in 1989.
“We are concerned by reports of overcrowding and crushing at the FA Cup tie between Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United at Hillsborough Stadium on Saturday evening,” a spokesperson for the SGSA was quoted as saying by the BBC.
“The SGSA is now working with the club, Sheffield City Council and the Safety Advisory Group to review the event, learn any lessons and ensure a safe environment for football fans.”
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