Jack Anderson: The law's running battle with the pitch invader

The law recognises that as a supporter you must take a certain amount of personal responsibility.

PITCH INVASION: Offaly supporters on the pitch, during the cup presentation, after the oneills.com Leinster GAA Hurling U20 Championship final match between Dublin and Offaly at Laois Hire O'Moore Park in Portlaoise, Laois. Pic: Ray McManus/Sportsfile

For those of us of a certain age, the term ‘pitch invasion’ conjures images of 1980s football hooliganism: Millwall supporters clashing fiercely with neighbouring London clubs; mounted bobbies on horses galloping around and tearing up the pitch in a desperate effort to stop the rioters from tearing up the stadium.

A starting point in the history of hooliganism occurred 50 years ago when in April 1974 Denis Law’s backheel for Manchester City contributed to Manchester United’s relegation. A pitch invasion followed. The match was abandoned but the score stood and down United would go.