SUNDAY’S LEAGUE ONE play-off between Preston North End and Chesterfield threatens to be overshadowed by an alleged assault on Ian Evatt by rival fans after the final whistle.
Richard Sellers
Richard Sellers
The Chesterfield captain claims he was ‘punched and spat on several times’ by home supporters as they spilled onto the pitch following their team’s 3-0 win.
The 33-year-old used to play for Preston’s Lancashire rivals Blackpool and Chesterfield have since confirmed their captain has given a statement to police.
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There was a capacity crowd of 15,000 inside the ground, many of whom swarmed the players at the full-time whistle.
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While Preston – who won 4-0 on aggregate to book a place at Wembley – have yet to comment on the alleged incident, Chesterfield assistant manager Leam Richardson revealed Evatt was unhurt.
“Ian’s fine. He did not react, categorically not,” Richardson said afterwards. “He never reacted. He was surrounded by a few thousand but he’s conducted himself very well.”
Richard Sellers
Richard Sellers
“The rivalry, you can’t underestimate that, but to lay hands on people as supporters and men is a disgrace.”
Jermaine Beckford’s wonder-goal helped the hosts to a comfortable win as they advanced to the final and within touching distance of promotion to the Championship.
Chesterfield captain accuses rival fans of 'punching and kicking' him during pitch invasion
SUNDAY’S LEAGUE ONE play-off between Preston North End and Chesterfield threatens to be overshadowed by an alleged assault on Ian Evatt by rival fans after the final whistle.
The Chesterfield captain claims he was ‘punched and spat on several times’ by home supporters as they spilled onto the pitch following their team’s 3-0 win.
The 33-year-old used to play for Preston’s Lancashire rivals Blackpool and Chesterfield have since confirmed their captain has given a statement to police.
There was a capacity crowd of 15,000 inside the ground, many of whom swarmed the players at the full-time whistle.
Whoops!
We couldn't find this Tweet
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We couldn't find this Tweet
While Preston – who won 4-0 on aggregate to book a place at Wembley – have yet to comment on the alleged incident, Chesterfield assistant manager Leam Richardson revealed Evatt was unhurt.
“Ian’s fine. He did not react, categorically not,” Richardson said afterwards. “He never reacted. He was surrounded by a few thousand but he’s conducted himself very well.”
“The rivalry, you can’t underestimate that, but to lay hands on people as supporters and men is a disgrace.”
Jermaine Beckford’s wonder-goal helped the hosts to a comfortable win as they advanced to the final and within touching distance of promotion to the Championship.
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