Brentford have called in the police after a bizarre incident during their Premier League clash with Liverpool, with footage of a man kicking a rugby ball towards the pitch sparking serious safety concerns.
The incident took place during Saturday’s match at the Gtech Community Stadium, where Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory after coming from behind.
Videos circulating online appear to show a man kicking a rugby ball from a balcony overlooking the pitch, while people nearby can be heard laughing and cheering. Another clip shows a member of staff collecting the ball from the playing area, prompting one viewer to joke: “Wrong sport, mate.”
However, Brentford are taking the matter seriously, warning that the behaviour could have put players and others at risk.
In a statement released on Monday, the club confirmed that the incident had been reported to the police and that they were assisting with efforts to identify those responsible.
The club described the act as “dangerous and potentially very harmful”, adding that appropriate action would be taken following the investigation. Criminal prosecution could also be a possibility, depending on the findings.
Brentford stressed that the safety of supporters, players, staff and match officials remained a priority. Liverpool have yet to comment publicly on the incident.
On the pitch, Liverpool claimed all three points thanks to goals from Victor Munoz and Alexander Isak, moving them to fifth in the Premier League table with 12 points from seven matches.
Brentford, meanwhile, sit sixth with 10 points after suffering their first league defeat of the campaign.
Liverpool will next face Villarreal at home, while Brentford travel to the MKM Stadium to take on Hull City on Sunday.
