Sheffield Wednesday FINALLY respond to claims of crushing and overcrowding during FA Cup win over Newcastle – as they insist turnstiles were open earlier than normal and the allocation of tickets ‘complied’ with safety requirements
Sheffield Wednesday have responded to reports of overcrowding in the away end at Hillsborough during Saturday’s FA Cup third-round clash with Newcastle.
With the Football Association having sought the view of both clubs amid concern from the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, the Owls have confirmed they have made their submission to the governing body.
Their statement said that the turnstiles were opened 30 minutes earlier than normal and that the allocation of tickets met safety requirements.
Sheffield Wednesday have issued a response to claims of crushing and overcrowding in the Newcastle end during their FA Cup victory over the Magpies at Hillsborough on Saturday
A statement on the club’s official website said: ‘Further to a request from the Football Association on the afternoon of Monday 9 January, Sheffield Wednesday has now submitted its comprehensive observations to the governing body following last weekend’s Emirates FA Cup third-round tie with Newcastle United.
‘We have engaged in extensive dialogue with all relevant parties to review the circumstances to best assist the FA with their enquiries.’
The statement continued: ‘Whilst it is inappropriate to outline in full the details of the submission at this time, the club feels it is important to emphasise that the stewarding numbers in place within the visitors’ section of the stadium exceeded the requirements of the Safety Certificate.
Wednesday say turnstiles were open to fans earlier than normal and that the ticket allocation met safety requirements
Sheffield Wednesday say they have submitted their observations to the Football Association
‘The allocation of tickets issued to Newcastle supporters also complied absolutely with the Safety Certificate.
‘In addition, fewer supporters entered the visitors’ turnstiles when aligned to the number of tickets allocated and sold. The turnstiles were opened 30 minutes earlier than a regular matchday, two hours before kick-off at 4pm, to allow Newcastle supporters to enter the stadium in a timely a manner as possible.
Sportsmail carried several accounts on Tuesday from away supporters detailing the scenes in the Leppings Lane end concourse and seating area before and during the game.
Fans described being caught in a crush in the narrow concourse prior to kick-off, with children left in tears and parents relying on fellow supporters to help them to safety. Wednesday have not commented on the concerns and have not replied to our request for guidance.
However, the FA are looking into the claims and they have now been joined by the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, who advise the Government on matters of spectator safety within stadiums.
A statement read: ‘We are concerned by reports of overcrowding and crushing at the FA Cup tie between Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United at Hillsborough Stadium on Saturday evening.
‘The SGSA is now working with the club, Sheffield City Council and the Safety Advisory Group to review the event, learn any lessons and ensure a safe environment for football fans.’
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