Football fan jailed for attacking Elland Road steward during violent clash between rival Leeds United and Birmingham City supporters

By Tony Gardner
Published 15th Sep 2020, 06:00 BST
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A fan who attacked a steward during violence between Birmingham City and Leeds United supporters after a match at Elland Road has been sent to prison.

Ben Smith climbed over seats to drag the steward away from helping her colleagues before fellow fans kicked her.

Leeds Crown Court has heard how the clash was the 'worst violence in a decade' at the stadium after one fan ran onto the pitch after Leeds United's 1-0 victory in the EFL Championship match on October 19 last year.

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Around 30 away fans tried to stop him from being arrested by punching, kicking and spitting at stewards and police officers.

Fans clashed after Elland Road match between Leeds United and Birmingham City in October 2019.Fans clashed after Elland Road match between Leeds United and Birmingham City in October 2019.
Fans clashed after Elland Road match between Leeds United and Birmingham City in October 2019.

Smith, of The Severn, Daventry, Northamptonshire, was jailed for seven months after pleading guilty to violent disorder.

The 33-year-old is one of 26 men and two youths charged with violent disorder following a series of public appeals for information.

Carmel Pearson, prosecuting, said police feared they would be overwhelmed and stewards were terrified.