West Ham1 have announced a review of the security at the London Stadium after trouble flared during their Premier League defeat to Watford2.
The Hammers will be looking at video footage of incidents between their own supporters and rival Hornets’ fans after scuffles broke out at the club’s new home. Problems arose when supporters’ were standing – leading to confrontations with stewards who stepped in to ask them to sit down. Unsavoury footage posted on social media sites had been posted even before the final whistle blew. There were also issues keeping the two sets of supporters apart as the Hornets’ claimed their first Premier League victory of the season in a 4-2 win.
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A West Ham fan gestures towards Watford fans (Photo: AFP/Getty) Image may be NSFW.
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West Ham fans leave (Photo: Action Images via Reuters)
West Ham have worked hard behind-the-scenes to attract a new generation of supporters to the former Olympic Stadium, offering season-tickets for 99 to youngsters. There has only been one arrest so far this season but around one dozen supporters have had their season-tickets cancelled. West Ham released the following statement:
“West Ham United unreservedly condemn the behaviour of the individuals involved in incidents during today’s fixture against Watford.
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West Ham fans leave in the second half (Photo: PA Wire)
“While these isolated incidents were quickly brought under control, this behaviour has no place in football and West Ham United will work tirelessly to eradicate such incidents.
“We are currently undertaking an immediate full review with all stakeholders. This includes police, stadium landlord and operator LS185, who are responsible for appointing and managing stewards and security, to ensure we eradicate such incidents moving forward.
“Our policy on this behaviour remains one of zero tolerance and we will work with the police and other stakeholders to identify the individuals involved.
Once identified, they will be banned from attending any West Ham United fixture for life and we will request the courts serve banning orders to prevent these individuals attending any football.”
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West Ham and Watford fans clash (Photo: Getty)
Slaven Bilic’s side blew a two goal lead to lose 4-23 but the performance of some of the home fans was even more disappointing. The early joy of West Ham’s openers dissipated and fans began to clash mid-way through the second half. The ugly scenes left some children crying while numerous supporters took to social media to voice their disgust.
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Hammers boss Bilic said on the trouble: They told me about it. I really didn’t see it.
“I saw only in the last 10-15 minutes after it was 4-2 that the public started to go home. I didn’t see it so how can I make any comment on that?