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Sidcup West Ham fan banned following fight at match against AZ Alkmaar in The Netherlands

16:08, 24 September 2023

Football fans including one from Bexley have been banned from watching West Ham after a fight broke out at a game in the Netherlands.

Shocking footage from last season's Europa Conference League semi-final match against AZ Alkmaar in May went viral on social media showing hooded fans clashing on the streets.

Four football fans have been issued bans. Stock Picture
Four football fans have been issued bans. Stock Picture

Met Police officers worked with colleagues from the Netherlands Police to identify those fighting in the videos.

Now four people, including the man from Bexley, have been issued with football banning orders.

They are Jacob Rankin, 30, from Sidcup, Blue Gregory, 29, from Colchester, Billy Simpson, 27, from Benfleet, and Phil Sands, 37, from Newham.

As well as being banned from watching West Ham, the four will also be required to surrender their passports during European games which will prevent them from travelling abroad.

PC Jack Muscatt from the MPS Football Unit said: “These cases show the collaborative work between police in different countries to deal with supporters committing offences.

Officers worked alongside those from the Netherlands force. Stock Picture: Met Police
Officers worked alongside those from the Netherlands force. Stock Picture: Met Police

"Following your club in Europe should be a great experience and we ask supporters to be respectful while visiting other countries.

“This advice applies to fans travelling across this country to follow their side. Anyone who is found to have caused disorder at home or abroad may discover they are no longer allowed to follow their club for multiple seasons.

"Passion is what makes football great but there is a line, do not overstep it and regret missing memorable trips with your mates.”

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