West Brom confirm action taken against Albion fan who gave FA Cup ticket to Wolves supporter
West Brom have confirmed that the supporter who supplied his ticket to a Wolves fan for January’s FA Cup tie has had his account suspended.
Play was halted for 30 minutes towards the end of the tie at The Hawthorns due to supporters clashing near the area housing away fans.
It later transpired that the skirmish was caused by a Wolves fan in the home enclosure, with his ticket coming from an Albion supporter.
Speaking at the latest Albion Assembly, as per Albion’s official website [21 March], Head of Security & Matchday Operations Howard Lewis-Jones said: “Howard stated the catalyst was an away fan in the home area, but added this does not excuse the behaviour of some home fans.
“He went on to dispel one rumour – saying the Wolves supporter did not get his ticket from a player (or someone who is associated to a player). It came from a genuine Albion fan, who has since had their account suspended.
“In excess of 20 accounts have been suspended by the club that relate to those who entered the pitch, are connected to away fans purchasing tickets, or people involved in disorderly behaviour.
“Albion have since responded to the FA with a detailed account of the planning that was in place for this fixture and, at the time of the meeting, awaited a response.
“Working closely with West Midlands Police (WMP), the club are supporting their investigation into offences and will then decide on any measures it will take.”
West Brom v Wolves marred by crowd trouble
The FA Cup fourth-round tie was hotly anticipated given how long it has been since the rival clubs had met in front of a crowd.
It made for a special atmosphere, but unfortunately matters boiled over and the game is now only remembered for events off the field.
Given it was broadcast live on terrestrial television, millions saw the crowd trouble unfold in what was an embarrassment for Albion.
This all stemmed from a West Brom fan supplying his ticket to a Wolves fan in the home enclosure.
Once Wolves went 2-0 up, the said fan celebrated and that then sparked the unruly scenes.
The club have taken adequate action by suspending the supporter’s account, while lessons have been learned moving forward.
Football is all about passion, but on this occasion a line was crossed. Let’s hope these scenes are not repeated again when the sides next meet.
In other West Brom news, Don Goodman has made an automatic promotion claim after what he has seen at The Hawthorns.
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