A 21-year-old football enthusiast received a three-year ban after assaulting a 13-year-old boy at a match. The incident occurred post the Southport versus Radcliffe FA Cup game at Southport Stadium on September 16. Identified as Sean Ryan, the Southport supporter physically attacked the teenage Radcliffe fan near The Jack Carr Stand without provocation. Following apprehension by stadium personnel, Ryan confessed to common assault.
Appearing before Sefton Magistrates’ Court on January 15, Ryan, residing in Old Swan, Liverpool, was sentenced to a three-year football ban, 120 hours of unpaid work, and ordered to pay £250 in compensation along with court fees. The assaulted boy, a Radcliffe supporter, experienced distress and physical discomfort as a result of the attack.
Inspector Stuart McLoughlin condemned the violent behavior, emphasizing that such actions have no place in football. Ryan’s swift admission led to his nationwide football ban. McLoughlin stressed the importance of ensuring safety at football events, promising to prosecute individuals engaging in unacceptable and violent conduct.
Southport Stadium, also known as the Merseyrail Community Stadium, hosts Southport FC at Haig Avenue. The stadium, with a 7,000 capacity, recently underwent upgrades including new seating, corporate facilities, and cladding, financed by club directors, grants, and sponsorships.