February 10 – The FA Cup 4th round tie between Leeds United and Millwall has resulted in both clubs condemning ‘tragedy chanting’ by Lions supporters at Elland Road.
The vile chanting from the away supporters was related to the murders of Leeds fans Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus before a UEFA Cup semi-final at Galatasaray in 2000.
“During today’s FA Cup fourth-round tie with Millwall, we were extremely disappointed to hear vile chants relating to football tragedies from the away section at Elland Road,” Leeds said in a statement.
“We know the impact this has on the families of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, along with the whole fanbase of Leeds United.
“We will work with the police and Millwall Football Club to identify those involved, while we will also continue our efforts with the football authorities to help eradicate these chants from the game.”
Millwall released a statement after the game saying the chanting has no place in football.
“The club strongly condemns all forms of football tragedy abuse and is appalled to receive reports of such chanting from a minority at today’s FA Cup fixture against Leeds United.”
“Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history.
“Chanting about this is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the club or the governing bodies.
“It has no place in football and the club will work closely with Leeds United and authorities to identify those responsible.
“We all have a duty to ensure Millwall Football Club is represented proudly and responsibly at all times.”
Millwall won the game 2-0.
Both clubs have had a history of football notoriety, with the Leeds United Service Crew and the Millwall Bushwackers in the 1970s and 80s, while in 2007 Millwall fans smashed bus windows while being transported to Leeds Railway Station. In retaliation, Leeds supporters attacked Millwall fans near the Billy Bremner statue outside Elland Road. This incident led to increased policing and earlier kick-off times for future fixtures.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1739284734labto1739284734ofdlr1739284734owedi1739284734sni@o1739284734fni1739284734