FA Stitch Millwall up again

Last updated : 03 June 2005 By Neil Andrews
Millwall have been found guilty of failing to control their fans following an FA investigation into the trouble that marred their Carling Cup clash against Liverpool back in October. Liverpool, meanwhile, were incredibly found not guilty - despite three of their fans receiving prison terms for their part in the trouble last month.

The Lions have appealed against the charge which has led the FA to refuse to make a statement confirming Liverpool's not guilty verdict, claiming Millwall's ongoing appeal means the matter has not been concluded.

According to the Liverpool Echo a decision was made as long as a month ago. Anfield chief executive Rick Parry was among the officials who had to give evidence at a three-day hearing in April and is said to be delighted with the verdict.

The outcome is likely to upset many Millwall fans, who were outraged at the behaviour of the away fans - who reportedly threw coins at several ballgirls and knocked a number of disabled supporters from their wheelchairs. And their anger is likely to be further fuelled by the FA's decision to pursue racism charge, levelled after an internet campaign by several Liverpool fans who weren't even at the game.

Despite reports on the contrary from police chiefs and visiting media, who were covering the match, the FA also concluded that Millwall fans were guilty of racially abusing the opposition's black players.