Millwall charged

Last updated : 28 September 2009 By The Merry Lion
Millwall Football Club have been hit with three charges from the Football Association in relation to the trouble surrounding the club's Carling Cup clash against West Ham United at Upton Park.

The charges levelled against the club concern their apparent failings in controlling supporters in relation to 1) Violent, threatening, obscene and provocative behaviour, 2) Racist behaviour and 3) Throwing missiles, harmful or dangerous objects onto the pitch. However, the club plan to contest the charges, admitting that they are "shocked and disappointed" by the FA's accusations.

"We maintain we did everything in our power in regard to ticketing arrangements for this game," said a club spokesman. "We expressed our concerns in advance about ticket allocations and arrangements in general.

"It was widely acknowledged that none of our supporters came onto the pitch and indeed the behaviour and forbearance of our fans brought praise from media observers on the night.

"Our question for the Football Association is what can Millwall Football Club do to control individuals' actions once inside our opponents' stadium?"