Paul Colbridge, a 37-year-old Manchester City fan, has just received a four-year ban following a pitch evasion at Etihad Stadium, England, that featured thousands of people on Sunday, 22 May. 

During a game between City and Aston Villa, thousands of the former club’s fans stormed the pitch at the full-time whistle to celebrate their winning by 3-2.

At the time, Aston Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen was reportedly assaulted by Colbridge, prompting an apology from the Citizens, as well as an immediate police investigation into the matter.  

This incident is just the latest of pitch invasions that have been steadily increasing since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Managers and staff are mainly concerned for the safety of the players, especially as the incidents are usually exacerbated by alcohol. 

Speaking of his role in the pitch invasion in the dock of the Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 7 June, a regretful Colbridge said: “To me, it was fuelled by alcohol. The following Monday, I sought out someone from the club and sent an apology by email. I also apologised on one of the City forums.

“It was a moment of madness. Pure elation. I wear my heart on my sleeve.”

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