FA level charges over Bridge brawl
by Tom Adams, 18 July 2008
The Football Association has charged Manchester United defender Patrice Evra and Chelsea groundsman Sam Bethell in connection with an unsavoury incident following a game between the two clubs in April, but Rio Ferdinand has escaped punishment after a clash with a steward.
The stormy encounter at Stamford Bridge on April 26 descended into farce after the final whistle as United players, who were warming down after the stands had emptied of fans, became involved in a tussle with members of Chelsea’s groundstaff.
Bethell has now been charged with ‘using abusive language aggravated by reference to nationality/race’ for his part in the incident that saw Evra restrained by his team-mates as an angry confrontation took place.
Evra has been charged with improper conduct but, contrary to previous reports, Ferdinand has not been charged after kicking a female steward in the tunnel.
“The FA has today issued charges against Manchester United defender Patrice Evra and Chelsea groundsman Sam Bethell in connection with an incident that occurred on the pitch after the match at Stamford Bridge on 26 April,” read an FA statement.
“Both Evra and Bethell have been charged with improper conduct in respect of their altercation. Bethell has also been charged with using abusive language aggravated by reference to nationality/race.
“The charges are the result of a thorough investigation conducted by The FA over the past three months. In bringing the charges, The FA used video evidence, CCTV footage and various witness statements from individuals present.
“The FA also investigated a post-match incident involving Rio Ferdinand and a Chelsea steward. No charge has been issued, on the basis that the incident was an accident and an apology had been made.
“In reaching its decision The FA relied largely on evidence provided by the steward in question. However, Ferdinand has been reminded of his responsibilities.”