Hillsborough: Stadium Safety Regulator Announces Review After Crushing And Overcrowding At FA Cup Game

The government's sports stadium safety regulator has announced a review with Sheffield Wednesday and local authorities into the crushing and overcrowding at Hillsborough that was reported by Newcastle fans during an FA Cup match

The Sports Grounds Safety Authority has said it wanted to “learn any lessons” after expressing concerns about the incident.

A crush in the same lower tier at the Leppings Lane End at Sheffield Wednesday's stadium at the 1989 FA Cup semi-final led to the deaths of 97 Liverpool supporters.

Footage emerged after Saturday's match of congestion around the exit to the tunnel.

A spokesperson for the Sports Grounds Safety Authority said: “We are concerned by reports of overcrowding and crushing at the FA Cup tie between Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United at Hillsborough Stadium on Saturday evening.

“The SGSA is now working with the club, Sheffield City Council and the Safety Advisory Group to review the event, learn any lessons and ensure a safe environment for football fans.”

The Sports Grounds Safety Authority issues licences for fans to attend stadiums in the Premier League and English Football League and oversees local authorities in approving safety certificates for venues.

The FA have also said they will speak to officials at Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United as well as South Yorkshire police following the reports of overcrowding.

Sheffield Wednesday have defended the safety arrangements for visiting supporters.

A statement on the Club’s website states:

“Further to a request from the Football Association on the afternoon of Monday 9th January, Sheffield Wednesday has now submitted its comprehensive observations to the governing body following last weekend’s Emirates FA Cup third round tie with Newcastle United.

“We have engaged in extensive dialogue with all relevant parties to review the circumstances to best assist the FA with their enquiries.

“Whilst it is inappropriate to outline in full the details of the submission at this time, the Club feels it is important to emphasise that the stewarding numbers in place within the visitors’ section of the stadium exceeded the requirements of the Safety Certificate. The allocation of tickets issued to Newcastle supporters also complied absolutely with the Safety Certificate.

“In addition, fewer supporters entered the visitors’ turnstiles when aligned to the number of tickets allocated and sold. The turnstiles were opened 30 minutes earlier than a regular matchday, two hours before kick-off at 4:00pm, to allow Newcastle supporters to enter the stadium in a timely a manner as possible.

“There were no reports of injuries or medical assistance required on the West Stand logged with the Club’s first aid Operations Manager before, during and after the game.

“Whilst we continue to assist and engage with the FA and explore all options, the Club will be making no further comment at this time.”