In planning for this fixture Rotherham United FC worked very closely with representatives of South Yorkshire Police, The Metropolitan Police and Millwall FC to try and ensure that Saturday’s fixture passed peacefully.
We were aware that a section of Milwall supporters were planning on attending this game intent on causing disorder. Contingency plans were in place to deal with this outcome with extra stewarding and Police resources in place to deal with the anticipated threat. Despite the extra resources deployed this group made numerous attempts to seek disorder throughout the afternoon resulting in the despicable scenes towards the end of the match.
Rotherham United are angered and upset at the unprecedented level of violent behaviour of some sections of the Millwall supporters inside and outside of the stadium. We are liaising closely with South Yorkshire Police to identify the individuals involved and our teams are already analysing all of our CCTV footage.
We would like to acknowledge the work and bravery of South Yorkshire Police, our matchday Stewards and the Stadium Safety Team who prevented a further escalation of a very serious situation. Further we apologise to the innocent supporters from both clubs who were caught up in the violence, the vast majority of whom were here to enjoy a game of football.
Rotherham United will be in contact with Millwall FC today to seek assurances that everything possible will be done to ensure the so called fans involved in the incidents are brought to account.