Millwall hit back at shabby press reports

Last updated : 11 May 2009 By The Merry Lion
Millwall Football Club have taken the unprecedented step of issuing a statement to in response to some of the reports that have appeared both online and in the national press since Saturday's play-off game against Leeds United.

The statement centres on the small pitch invasion in the corner of the lower South and West blocks after Neil Harris scored the only goal of the game and the confrontation between two fans and Leeds goalkeeper Casper Ankergren, who has alleged he was struck by one of the fans.

Ankergren has called for the club to punished, despite his roll in the incident with many fans reporting that the Danish keeper spat at one of the two fans, and the club have been quick to respond, banning both supporters.

The full statement reads as follows:

"We take serious issue with some of the highly sensationalised reportage of Saturday's game. It is clear that certain journalists and photographers were sent to The Den with their agenda already formed. As a result the facts were not allowed to get in the way of a 'good story' and as such the events were portrayed in certain quarters in the most graphic terms that were factually incorrect.

There was no pitch invasion, as has been reported in some newspapers, there were no police on the pitch during the game, as has also been suggested. The only regrettable incident during the afternoon followed Millwall's goal when two fans managed to elude the stewards and taunt the Leeds goalkeeper. It appears that a cigarette was also thrown which made no contact with the goalkeeper, who may also have been pushed in the back.

The police arrested these individuals who were banned immediately and may be subject to court action. Other people who came over the wall in celebration soon returned to their seats and offered no threat. Millwall and the Metropolitan Police were pleased with the security operation which ensured that the game was played in a good competitive spirit with the minimum of disruption. There were just four arrests and the presence of mounted police at the end of the game was a pre-planned strategy as part of the operation and not the result of any disorder.

With the second leg of the tie to come at Elland Road on Thursday, we are concerned that irresponsible journalism on the part of some might serve to inflame the situation. It is in everyone's interests to ensure that football matches can be played in safe, secure environments.

Millwall and Leeds United have worked tirelessly to overcome the problems they have faced over the years in this respect. Journalists and the media have a duty to play their part by reporting factually and responsibly."