Fan disorder causes suspension of West Brom and Wolves FA Cup derby
The FA Cup match between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers on Jan 28, 2024, took a turn for the worse when supporters entered the pitch, causing the game to be suspended. The disorder in the stands led to violent scenes, prompting police intervention at both ends of the ground.
Despite Wolves taking a 2-0 lead with a goal from Mateus Cunha in the 78th minute, the match was unable to continue as the players and staff from both teams had to go down the tunnel for safety. West Brom defender Kyle Bartley even called his family down from the stands as the situation escalated.
The incident serves as a reminder of the passion and emotion that can often spill over in football, but it also draws attention to the need for better security and crowd control measures at sporting events. It’s a disappointing turn of events for both the teams and their fans, and it highlights the importance of maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in the game.
On the 28th of January, 2024, at 08:38 AM, the FA Cup match between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers at The Hawthorns was interrupted due to the unsanctioned entry of supporters onto the pitch following disturbances in the stands.
The match witnessed Wolves take the lead with a goal by Mateus Cunha in the 78th minute, putting the Premier League team up 2-0. However, before the game could resume, law enforcement had to intervene at both ends of the stadium as violent altercations erupted in the stands.
A message displayed on the stadium screens cautioned spectators to return to their seats, reminding them that entering the field of play constitutes a criminal offense. Wolves’ defender Craig Dawson attempted to pacify the supporters, and both teams’ players and staff were escorted off the field as the authorities worked to quell the discord.
Additionally, West Brom defender Kyle Bartley was observed on the broadcast, calling for his family to leave the aforementioned stands as the players vacated the field.
