Brentford refer rugby ball-throwing spectator to police after Liverpool match

Brentford have referred a spectator to police after video footage circulated online showing a man kicking a rugby ball from a balcony overlooking the Gtech Community Stadium onto the pitch during Saturday’s Premier League match against Liverpool, which the Reds won 2-1.

In a statement issued on Monday, the club described the act as “dangerous and potentially very harmful” and confirmed it is cooperating with authorities to identify those responsible. “Brentford Football Club is aware of an incident involving an item being kicked from a height towards the field of play during Saturday’s match against Liverpool,” the statement read. “Such behaviour is dangerous and potentially very harmful. The matter has been referred to the police and the club is supporting the relevant authorities in their investigation to help identify those responsible and take appropriate action.”

Brentford added that the individual could face criminal prosecution and stressed the importance of safety for all fans, players, staff and officials at the stadium. A separate clip showed a member of staff removing the rugby ball from the pitch.

The match itself saw Liverpool come from behind to claim all three points. Victor Munoz and Alexander Isak scored for the visitors after Brentford had taken the lead, with the Bees also finishing the game with ten men. The result leaves Liverpool fifth in the Premier League table with 12 points from seven matches, while Brentford drop to sixth on 10 points — their first league defeat of the season.

Liverpool Football Club had not issued a public comment on the incident at the time of writing.