Brentford contact police after rugby ball kicked from rooftop during Liverpool match

Brentford have referred a "dangerous" incident to the police after a rugby ball was kicked from a rooftop towards the pitch during their Premier League defeat by Liverpool on Saturday. The club condemned the behaviour and said it could lead to criminal prosecution.

  • Match result: Brentford 1-2 Liverpool
  • Incident: Rugby ball kicked from a height towards the pitch
  • Location: Near the Gtech Community Stadium
  • Action: Brentford working with police; investigation ongoing
  • Red cards: Yehor Yarmolyuk and Vitaly Janelt (Brentford)
  • League position: Brentford sixth after defeat

What was said

"Such behaviour is dangerous and potentially very harmful."

— Brentford statement

"The matter has been referred to the police and the club is supporting the relevant authorities in their investigation to help identify those responsible and take appropriate action, which may result in criminal prosecution."

— Brentford statement

"The matchday safety of fans, staff, players and officials is of utmost importance, and the club will support all efforts to ensure action is taken."

— Brentford statement

Brentford's response is unequivocal: they will not tolerate any threat to matchday safety. The club's willingness to involve the police and support prosecution sends a clear message that such reckless acts have serious consequences.

Why Brentford's firm stance matters

The incident, captured in social media videos showing a man on a rooftop kicking a rugby ball towards the pitch while others laughed, could have had grave consequences. A rugby ball is heavier and harder than a football, and a direct hit on a player, official or fan could cause significant injury. Brentford's swift condemnation and referral to the police reflect the growing emphasis on stadium security and fan conduct.

On the pitch, Brentford's discipline also cost them dearly. Yehor Yarmolyuk and Vitaly Janelt were both sent off in the second half, leaving the Bees to battle with nine men against Liverpool. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Brentford managed to score once, but ultimately fell to a 2-1 defeat. The red cards will force manager Thomas Frank to reshuffle for the next match, with both players now suspended.

The loss leaves Brentford sixth in the table, still in a strong position but with mounting concerns over squad depth and discipline. The club's off-field response, however, shows they are taking the safety of everyone at the Gtech Community Stadium seriously. The police investigation is ongoing, and Brentford have pledged full cooperation.

Talking points

  • Should Brentford increase security around the stadium to prevent similar incidents, or was this a one-off?
  • With two red cards, is discipline becoming a problem for Thomas Frank's side?
  • How will Brentford cope without Yarmolyuk and Janelt in the coming fixtures?
  • Does the club's strong response set a precedent for how football clubs handle fan misconduct?

What happens next

Brentford will await the police investigation while preparing for their next Premier League fixture without the suspended Yarmolyuk and Janelt. The club's sixth-place position is under threat, and they must quickly regroup to maintain their strong start to the season.

Frequently asked questions

What happened with the rugby ball at Brentford vs Liverpool?

A man on a rooftop near the Gtech Community Stadium kicked a rugby ball towards the pitch during the match. The ball was removed by staff, and Brentford have reported the incident to the police.

Who was sent off for Brentford against Liverpool?

Yehor Yarmolyuk and Vitaly Janelt were both sent off in the second half.

What is Brentford's league position after the defeat?

Brentford are sixth in the Premier League table.

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