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Police to investigate ‘frightening crush’ at Leeds vs Newcastle
Published 16:09 24 Jan 2022 GMT
Homesport
Fans were left "terrified" before the game
West Yorkshire Police and Leeds United are set to investigate an incident that occurred during Newcastle United's 1-0 win at Elland Road on Saturday. Both the police and Leeds will review the incident, in which Newcastle fans claim that they were involved in a "frightening" crush on their way into the ground. As reported by the BBC, supporters were left "terrified" before the game when four turnstiles - designed to let in almost 2,700 supporters - stopped working. It adds that there were no reported injuries, but witnesses stated that police and stewards failed to respond to an incident which reportedly lasted over 30 minutes.While the gate was eventually opened, many fans were unable to get to their seat as the concourse was so congested.
Leeds confirmed that they received "complaints raised by some Newcastle supporters regarding issues experienced entering Elland Road on Saturday".
The club added that they will "now work with the Newcastle United Supporters' Trust, West Yorkshire Police and our own safety team to review the issues raised, and ensure we continue to provide a safe environment for everyone attending our stadium".
Newcastle United Supporters' Trust board member Thomas Concannon told the BBC that the situation was a "complete and utter nightmare".
He said: "Where was the response to the faulty turnstiles? This should have escalated to the match controller as soon as they realised there was a problem.
"Fans need to know what happened and why - and they deserve an apology. Many fans were left distressed by such a frightening episode."
The Magpies secured an important 1-0 victory over Marcelo Bielsa's side, with Jonjo Shelvey scoring in the 75th minute to move Newcastle within one point of Norwich City with a game in hand.
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