Source: FOOTYMAD
Southend United await decision day as Ryan Hall returns to court
The Shrimpers faithful await the court's verdict as on bail winger Ryan Hall returns to court to face sentencing for a charge of affray and carrying an offensive weapon. A young Ryan Hall in what we believed were his lost wilder days at Crystal PalaceRyan Hall certainly had a reputation as a young lad as a boy who didn't back down, once causing controversy after being involved in a fracas at a five-a-side football tournament, which resulted in a security guard being hospitalised with facial injuries!Not nice at all, and very sad, as the Shrimpers faithful know Ryan is in great form with the exciting winger picking up several S24 man-of-the-match awards in along with the odd special goal.The player's on fire.However, there were always concerns that old habits could return to haunt him, and we're not talking about the odd slap here.It's already confirmed that following an incident on December 19th 2010 Ryan appeared at Southend Magistrates Court earlier this month charged with affray and, BBC Essex informs us, possession of an offensive weapon.After being released on bail he was summoned to return on Thursday, March 4th for sentencing.The incident happening after the team's Christmas party, where we are informed a group of individuals made a racist comment against Ryan.The official site released the following statement at the time: 'Mr. Hall was bailed until 3rd March when he will be required to reappear for sentencing. Whilst legal proceedings are ongoing it would be inappropriate for the football club to comment on the specifics of the case. However, we would like to reassure supporters that Ryan is receiving the full support of the Club's management and his teammates at this time'They added they would make no further comment.Oh dear.Northampton at home last Saturday could have been the last time we see the 23-year-old for the season and maybe a touch longer, affray is not a mickey mouse offence and Ryan could well receive a custodial sentence.As soon a swe hear anything it will be posted on the site.Affray: A common law criminal offence comprised of the public fighting of two or more persons to the terror of the public.The offence required the coming to blows and the sentence often varied depending on the venue and can be severely punished.
