Premier League side Brentford are collaborating with police authorities after a rugby ball was kicked from a height towards the pitch during Saturday's encounter with Liverpool. Club officials labelled the occurrence dangerous after the foreign object was launched directly into the Gtech Community Stadium while the top-flight fixture was actively taking place.
The troubling situation came to light via footage circulated across social media. In one video, an individual standing on a rooftop near the ground is seen kicking the rugby ball towards the playing surface while people around him cheer and laugh. Another clip captured from inside the venue depicts a member of staff picking up the rugby ball and removing it from the pitch while play continued.
Brentford released a firm statement condemning the stunt, pointing out that "such behaviour is dangerous and potentially very harmful." The club stated: "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." The statement added: "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."
The safety scare added to a challenging day on the pitch for Brentford, who suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Liverpool on Saturday. The Bees faced an uphill battle after Yehor Yarmolyuk and Vitaly Janelt were both sent off during the second half. Following the defeat, Brentford currently occupy sixth place in the Premier League table as authorities pursue those responsible for the rooftop incident.