The second Sheffield derby of the season is set to take place this Sunday at Hillsborough Stadium, but after disorder broke out last time, fans have concerns over safety.
On Sunday 10 November 2024, the Championship clubs went head to head in a league tie at Bramall Lane, but a brawl broke out leaving the fans involved facing disciplinary action.
A total of 22 individuals have been identified following the disorder and banned by the clubs from attending future matches, according to South Yorkshire Police.
Chief Superintendent, Cherie Buttle, from South Yorkshire Police, said: “As a force, we do not tolerate any kind of disorder, whether this is at football matches or elsewhere. Attending a football match should be an enjoyable day out for everyone, and we know the majority of people attending will be looking forward to the day and will not be looking to cause disruption.
“We work very closely with all our local football clubs to ensure anti-social behaviour or violence is dealt with effectively and efficiently.”
So far 10 people have been charged in connection with the disorder, while others are awaiting decisions from the Crown Prosecution Service or remain under investigation, according to a South Yorkshire Police spokesperson.
Two of the offenders have received court-imposed football banning orders, the force said.
Brandon, 25, a lifelong Sheffield Wednesday fan, is set to watch the derby live this Sunday but has concerns over the safety of the match. He said: “I’ve been an Owl my whole life and it’s such a shame that small groups of people ruin it for everyone.
“I’d like to be able to take my kids with me, like I used to go with my Dad to matches, but I just worry about how safe it is for them. It’s not fair that I have to worry about my kids safety at a football match.”
Ahead of Sunday’s match, Brandon would like the clubs to ‘take more responsibility for fan’s safety” and impose “harsher punishments” for anyone who behaves disorderly.
Breaking the terms of a court-imposed football banning order can lead to a custodial sentence of up to six months and a fine of up to £5,000.