Millwall to 'vigorously' defend FA charges over violence at West Ham

13 October 2009 11:09
Millwall have vowed to contest FA charges over the night of shame at West Ham. [LNB]The London rivals face a number of charges - four for West Ham and three for Millwall - after the alleged violence and racism that overshadowed their Carling Cup clash at Upton Park on August 25. [LNB]The two temas are charged with of failing to ensure their fans refrained from Violent, threatening, obscene and provocative behaviour; racist behaviour; and throwing missiles, harmful or dangerous objects on to the pitch.[LNB] Enlarge Night of shame: A fan is dragged from the Upton Park pitch[LNB]West Ham were also charged with failing to ensure their fans did not invade the pitch. [LNB]Millwall are angry that they are threatened with action over events that occurred at another club's ground.[LNB] 'It is our contention that the charges are not justified,' said chief executive Andy Ambler. 'We will be pleading not guilty to all charges and defending our position vigorously.'[LNB]'It is a frustration to us that we are committing significant resources of time, energy and money towards having to defend  ourselves in the face of these charges.' [LNB]A Millwall fan was stabbed outside Upton Park and police arrested 19 people over disorder inside and outside the ground, with 13 charged with offences. West Ham supporters invading the pitch after each of their goals in the 3-1 extra-time win.[LNB] Enlarge Chaos: West Ham supporters invaded the pitch[LNB]West Ham's Carlton Cole and Millwall's Jason Price alleged that they were racially abused by supporters. [LNB]Both clubs have been handed an extension until Monday to respond to the charges, with Millwall asking barrister Jim Sturman QC defend their corner. West Ham continue to review the charges before offering their response. [LNB]'In advance of the Millwall match, the club followed the strict advice of the relevant authorities at every stage of the planning process,' said a club spokesman. [LNB]'That full co-operation continued on the night, with the club working closely with police on a carefully set-out plan that was initiated and approved by the independent safety advisory group. [LNB]'We do acknowledge the appalling behaviour of a minority of fans inside the stadium and, in conjunction with police, will continue to take strong and appropriate action against anyone found responsible.'[LNB] FA give West Ham and Millwall extra time to answer crowd trouble chargesWest Ham and Millwall hit with FA charges over violence and racism Martin Samuel: This was not Millwall's problem; this was down to West HamWEST HAM UNITED FC

Source: Daily_Mail