Gateshead defend police presence at recent home game
Gateshead Football Club have defended what has been described as an “excessive” police presence at the club’s recent home match against Wrexham.
Northumbria Police reportedly sent 30 officers to police a crowd of just 400.
The move follows an incident at last Saturday’s home game against Maidstone, where a small group of home fans threatened and antagonised the club’s stewards.
Two fans have now been given banning orders as a result of the trouble.
The club also confirmed a smoke bomb was set off on the concourse after the match on Tuesday.
After the club released a statement of the club Facebook page it was met with a mixed reception from fans.
One fan wrote:
“The response last night was excessive to say the least- spoilt the atmosphere- if this is allowed to continue the gate (and therefore the club will suffer).
“In no way am I condoning the flare incident in the concourse. But without atmosphere at football matches and involvement of fans you might as well go to the cinema."
But another fan said:
“The behaviour of a group of ‘fans’ was in my opinion disgusting. It was insightful and close to being out of control.
“I never once felt like the police presence spoilt my enjoyment of last night’s game.”
Clearly the issue is creating a divide at the club and should be dealt with as soon as possible by the club.
The club said it was unlikely that police would be at the next game.
Credit to The Chronicle for the imagery used in this article.