The fans’ views

Sunderland and Celtic fans have taken to social media to have their say about the trouble which blighted the pre-season friendly between the clubs at the Stadium of Light.

Police confirmed today that 21 arrests were made yesterday before, during and after the match.

Fan Robbie Girdwood wrote on Facebook: “Sunderland football club have to take responsibility for total disorganisation inside the ground. Celtic fans walking around goading Sunderland fans. No segregation, flares being thrown by Celtic fans. Don’t know how more people weren’t hurt. I felt for the stewards who were put in an impossible position today. The first time I have left a match early - feared for my safety- witnessed more trouble around stadium - shops closing early to avoid being ransacked. I would argue the situation was far from controlled.”

David Gold wrote: “I work in the ground and by far it was the worst experience of my life! Being spat at, being threatened by saying I’m gunna get stabbed, getting pushed and drink poured on me, all because we had to shut the bars, smoke bombs thrown at the bars. But must say not all of them were bad.”

David Kay wrote: “Minority of Celtic fans were intent on causing trouble today and did.”

Sam Priestess said: “All the Celtic fans I came across today were no bother - in fact one gave my 5 year old his hat and another 2 gave him £5 each! The ones singing for Dave the Rave at St Peters were just out to enjoy themselves too.”

The Celtic fans themselves said it was a small minority of their travelling support who got involved in trouble.

One supporter, Bongo, wrote on the Kerrydale Street fans’ forum: “Mixed well before the game, I saw/felt no tension. We arrived at the ground about 2.20 though, so seem to have missed any bother. After the game, the police were not letting fans into the town centre, so we decided to get out of Dodge straight away.”