Fan cleared of assaults after fall from Ipswich stand
Away fan John Ryan toppled from the upper tier at Ipswich Town's ground and landed on home supporters.
John Ryan, a Maidstone United supporter, has been acquitted of assault charges following a fall from the upper tier of a grandstand during an FA Cup match between their teams at Ipswich Town's Portman Road ground in January 2024. Ryan, 62, from Chatham, Kent, denied charges of assault by beating and actual bodily harm, telling Ipswich Crown Court that he could not control himself during goal celebrations.
The incident occurred when Ryan fell onto Joanne Peters and her partner Aaron Rose, who were fans below. Ryan claimed he could not recall whether he was pushed or had slipped when he fell, stating he had been unsure. He had been among thousands of Maidstone United supporters celebrating a historic 2-1 victory over Ipswich in the Championship play-off final.
Prosecutor Simon Gladwell had previously informed the court that Ryan had consumed five cans of lager before the match. Ryan was found not guilty of both charges by the jury.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport Football's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
