Football fans from Wrexham and Oldham Athletic clashed in a violent brawl before their scheduled game at Boundary Park in Greater Manchester. The chaotic scenes erupted as around 100 Wrexham AFC fans were drinking at the Millgate pub in Failsworth ahead of the match. A large group of Oldham supporters arrived at the pub, sparking clashes between the two groups.
Police described the confrontation as one of the worst episodes of violence they had ever witnessed. The brawl involved fighting, pushing, and throwing items at each other, causing chaos on the streets. Both sets of fans continued taunting each other on Lordship Lane, with members of the public having to seek shelter in their homes for safety. The police eventually intervened and documented the incident.
Alban Hart, Luke Groome-Harrison, and Louis Davies were among those arrested and subsequently convicted of violent disorder. Hart was reported to have taken a fighting stance and thrown punches at Wrexham supporters. Groome-Harrison also engaged in physical altercations with opposing fans. Davies, on the other hand, was observed provoking others but claimed he did not actively participate in the violence.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the fans involved displayed arrogance and confidence, believing they were untouchable. The officer described the groups as organised, dangerous, and mindless. The judge, Neil Usher, condemned their actions, stating that such behaviour caused fear and distress to innocent bystanders caught up in the disorder.
Hart, Groome-Harrison, and Davies were handed suspended prison sentences, community service, and rehabilitation requirements. They were also ordered to pay court costs and received football banning orders. Representing the defendants, their lawyers emphasised that the men were remorseful for their actions and were typically of good character.
The judge highlighted the impact of such hooliganism on genuine football fans and the image of the clubs involved. He admonished the convicts, labelling them as an embarrassment to their respective teams. The court emphasised the detrimental effect such incidents have on smaller clubs, discouraging fans from attending matches due to safety concerns.
Despite expressing regret and apologising for their behaviour, the three men faced legal repercussions for their involvement in the violent clashes. The sentencing aimed to serve as a deterrent to prevent future incidents of hooliganism and uphold public safety at football matches.