A police officer was injured and a total of three people arrested at the last ever match between West Ham United and Tottenham Hostpur at the Boleyn Ground in Upton Park last night.
Despite a heavy police presence that saw Green Street closed off as mounted officers, riot police and dog units took to the road, the London derby match turned violent as fans clashed with each other and police on their way to the match.
According to a Met spokeswoman: “Shortly before the game kicked off items where thrown, including pint glasses, by supporters of both teams. One police officer sustained a facial injury.”
Two fans were arrested for affray and assault on police officers while another, believed to be a West Ham supporter, was picked up on suspicion of possessing a homemade offensive weapon in proactive work by officers ahead of the premier league derby.
He has since been released on police bail pending further enquiries while the other two remain in custody.
Hours before the game kicked off at 7.45pm, Newham Council took the decision to board up the Champions statue of England’s World Cup winning heroes in what they said was a “preventative measure” following police advice.
The match ended with West Ham winning by a single goal. The Met said there were “no significant issues” as fans made their way home.
This is the last season West Ham will play at their traditional home ground. They are moving into Stratford’s Olympic Stadium this year and the Champions statue is moving with them.
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