Millwall fans clash in stands
LONDON— Millwall fans fought each other at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, overshadowing Wigan’s 2-0 victory to reach the FA Cup final for the first time in its 81-year history.
Police and stewards appeared to be slow to react as the disorder built throughout the second half, groups of Millwall supporters brawling with each other and security officials. London police said 10 people were arrested following “sporadic disorder among fans in the Millwall supporters’ area,” adding the investigation was ongoing.
In pictures broadcast around the world, one female Wigan fan was seen to be in tears as Millwall supporters traded punches, reviving memories of the 1970s when the London club’s struggle with hooliganism cast a shadow over English football.
“We are continuing to progress as aclub, that’s out greatest challenge,” said Millwall manager Kenny Jackett, who did not see any of the fighting.
“We’ve worked very hard to do everything we possibly can to try to be trouble-free. . . . If crowd trouble is going to be continuously brought up with Millwall that will hold us back.” Wigan chairman Dave Whelan fears the image of English football has been damaged. “I can’t understand why the Millwall fans would fight each other,” he said. “I understand if they want to fall out with the visiting team, but why would they fall out amongst themselves? It just gives football a very, very poor reputation.”