Fans’ fury at Pittodrie exit delay

Dundee United fans claim they were put at unnecessary risk when they were held back after Saturday’s match against Aberdeen.

Away supporters have raised concerns over the way their exit from Pittodrie after the club’s 1-0 defeat was handled.

Travelling United diehards were held back “in the interest of public safety”, with the gates leading on to Park Road from the stadium closed.

When the Tangerines faithful was allowed to leave, however, only one section of the gate was opened to enable them to exit.

Afterwards, some said they were lucky not to be injured.

One United fan, who asked not to be named, said: “It was an unnecessary risk.”

Others took to Twitter to voice their frustration, with supporters claiming they raised their concerns with police at the time.

Police say they have received no official complaints about crowd control.

One fan wrote: “Luckily there wasn’t a crush this time.”

Another said: “The gates were shut outside. Then they opened one and, for some inexplicable reason, opened only one (potentially) causing a crush.

“The police outside were furious. I approached one and he said they were reporting it as it was dangerous.”

Police said they are unaware of any reports of crushing at the gate.

Chief Inspector David Paterson said: “It was an operational decision to hold supporters back after the fixture, made between Aberdeen FC and Police Scotland in the interest of public safety.

“This decision was relayed across the public announcement system 10 minutes before the final whistle.

“The opening and closing of gates is a stewarding function under the direction of the club safety officers.

“This ‘hold’ on fans was for a very short time and we were unaware of any reports of crushing or public safety risks.

“We did not receive any reports of injuries sustained, and have not received any complaints.”