A football enthusiast who assaulted a 13-year-old boy at a game has been handed a three-year ban. Sean Ryan, 21, attacked the youngster after the Southport versus Radcliffe FA Cup match at Southport Stadium on Thursday, September 16.
Ryan, a Southport supporter, approached The Jack Carr Stand and carried out an ‘unprovoked assault’ on the teenager, as per the police. He was apprehended by stadium personnel and later confessed to common assault.
Appearing at Sefton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, January 15, Ryan, from Old Swan, Liverpool, received a three-year football ban, 120 hours of community service, a £250 compensation fee, and court expenses.
The victim, a Radcliffe fan, was described as ‘very distressed’ and experienced discomfort due to the incident.
Inspector Stuart McLoughlin stated: “The young victim was greatly disturbed by the attack, and such violent conduct is unacceptable in football. Fortunately, Ryan admitted to the assault promptly, leading to his nationwide football ban.”
“Every individual should feel secure and free from fear when attending a football match. We are committed to identifying and prosecuting anyone engaging in inappropriate or violent behavior at football events.”
Southport Stadium, also known as the Merseyrail Community Stadium, is the home ground of Southport FC, situated at Haig Avenue. The stadium, with a capacity of 7,000, has undergone recent enhancements, including new seating, corporate amenities, and cladding, supported by club directors, grants, and sponsorships.