Sheffield Wednesday v Lincoln City: Away fans given marching orders after trouble flares

A mounted police officer said a ‘significant minority’ engaged in disorder before and after the League One clash at Hillsborough on Saturday, which ended 1-1.

PC Phil Reed, of South Yorkshire Police’s mounted unit, was among the officers who had to deal with the trouble which flared between supporters.

He said: “Disgusting scenes as a significant minority made concerted and organised attempts to engage in disorder. As is always the case, genuine fans and families trying to go about their day found themselves caught in the middle.

“We had bottles, flares and stones thrown at us and all the horses certainly earned their keep and kept the two groups apart. I saw some extremely brave officers, greatly outnumbered, hold their ground and keep the peace until the cavalry arrived. Huge respect.

“Billy slipped on the tram tracks and fell over sending our sergeant scuttling across the concrete. I’m pleased to say they are both absolutely fine now. The behaviour we saw has no place in a civil society, let alone a family game. Special mention goes to Police Horse Hoober who did all asked.”

Superintendent Mark James, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Saturday’s fixture between Sheffield Wednesday and Lincoln was well attended, with the majority of fans coming to enjoy the game and what our city has to offer.

“Unfortunately prior to the game we did see some incidents of antisocial behaviour from fans whilst in the city centre. Approximately 40 Lincoln fans were given section 35 dispersal orders with direction to leave the county due to their behaviour. They were escorted back to the train station in conjunction with the British Transport Police.

“It is really disappointing there was a small minority who attended the game intent on causing antisocial behaviour, this kind of behaviour is not acceptable and our officers work hard to ensure everybody can enjoy the game without their safety being at put at risk.”

The Star has contacted Sheffield Wednesday, which has yet to respond.