Eight men arrested and one charged following Manchester United v Liverpool FA Cup tie

Greater Manchester Police worked in close collaboration with clubs and partner agencies in the lead up to yesterday’s fixture to ensure that fans could enjoy the action safely, not only in the grounds, but in the city centre, travel networks, and key locations where fans gather to watch.

Emotions always run high at football matches, and police were on hand to intervene where necessary.

Of the 72,000 people in attendance, 8 men were arrested for the following offences:

• A 36-year-old Liverpool supporter on suspicion of possession of class A drugs.
• A 26-year-old Liverpool supporter on suspicion of possession of class A drugs.
• A 21-year-old Liverpool supporter on suspicion of possession of class A drugs.
• A 21-year-old Manchester United supporter on suspicion of causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress through chanting.
• A 59-year-old Manchester United supporter on suspicion of causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress through chanting.
• A 46-year-old Liverpool supporter on suspicion of possession of a pyrotechnic.
• A 19-year-old Manchester United supporter on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.
• A 37-year-old Manchester United supporter on suspicion of pitch encroachment.

George Fenning (29/12/1984) of Craigentinny Road, Edinburgh, has been charged with possession of a class B drug, possession of a pyrotechnic and throwing missiles. He has since been bailed.

Chief Inspector Jamie Collins, Silver Commander for the match, said: “I would like to thank the vast majority of supporters who came along to enjoy what turned out to be an intense game right to the very last minute.

“Thanks as well to all our officers and partners involved in the operation yesterday who contributed to what was a fantastic FA Cup tie.

“The arrests made were the result of us taking a proactive, zero-tolerance approach to ensure that genuine supporters and spectators were able to enjoy the match safely.

“GMP can confirm that a 21-year-old and a 59-year-old man were arrested in connection with tragedy chanting. Incidents of tragedy chanting will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly.

“We held a supporter group meeting with both sets of fans prior to the match and both groups agreed that tragedy chanting was totally unacceptable. GMP will clamp down on this and arrest those who engage in such behaviour, regardless of what team they support.

“We are also aware of footage circulating on social media of a Manchester United supporter engaging in tragedy chanting. No arrest has been made yet but GMP are working with both clubs to identify the individual in connection with this incident.

“I hope that these arrests will act as a deterrent to anyone attending future games.”