Portsmouth FC fans banned after football matches posing as stewards to break into Southampton stadium
The rivalry between Portsmouth and Southampton fans has always been bitter - but this is a whole new level of pettiness.
Two brothers who were Pompey fans posed as stewards, complete with radios and high-vis vests, posed as stewards to sneak into St Mary’s Stadium and watch their club play against Southampton, a court heard.
Kane Green, 29 from Magdalen Road, Portsmouth, and Dale Green, 31 from Devonshire Avenue, Portsmouth, pulled out all the stops to watch the south coast derby, with both clubs now back in the Championship. But appearing at Southampton Magistrates’ Court, the pair have now paid the price for their crimes.
The duo both pleaded guilty at Southampton Magistrates’ Court to fraud by false representation and going on to the playing area of a football match and were each fined about £700, as well as being hit with a football banning order, according to Hampshire Constabulary.
That ban means they cannot attend any football matches in-person for the next three years.
Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson, gold commander for the policing operation around the game, said: “This was a ridiculous plot to try and see the game, despite knowing tickets were sold out and those without tickets would not be getting in.
“They clearly came with the intention to get into the stadium illegally, bringing high-vis vests with ‘steward’ on the back, with one even carrying a radio and earpiece.
“However, what they didn’t bank on was the professionalism and vigilance of the club’s security team and our officers, who quickly spotted they weren’t wearing any accreditation and worked together to eject them.
“Their actions have seen them face very serious consequences in court today and for two people who were so desperate to see this one game, they will now not be able to go to any for three years.
“I would like to thank the stewards who spotted something was wrong and took immediate action, as well as our officers who swiftly intervened and helped ensure they had their day in court.
“I hope this reassures the real football fans that we work closely with football clubs and will take action against those who threaten to disrupt games.”