A dramatic pitch invasion brought League Two football to an abrupt halt on Saturday as protesters targeted the match between Gillingham and Doncaster Rovers in a stunning anti-Gary Neville demonstration.
The game at MEMS Priestfield Stadium was suspended in the 12th minute when multiple invaders entered the playing field, unfurling banners that read 'Gary Neville is a traitor' in a coordinated protest that left players and officials stunned.
Match Suspended Amid Security Breach
As the invaders raced across the pitch, referee Scott Oldham immediately halted play, with security staff scrambling to apprehend the protesters. The incident caused significant disruption, leaving both teams and the 5,000-strong crowd in confusion as stewards worked to clear the field.
The timing proved particularly symbolic, with the 12th-minute protest appearing to reference Neville's association with Manchester United, though the specific grievances behind the demonstration remained unclear.
Stadium Reaction and Aftermath
Following a seven-minute delay, order was restored and the match resumed, eventually concluding in a 1-1 draw. However, the invasion left a palpable tension in the stadium, with many supporters expressing frustration at the disruption to the crucial league encounter.
Club officials have launched a full investigation into the security breach, with potential FA charges looming for both clubs regarding the failure to prevent the invasion. The incident raises serious questions about stadium security at lower-league grounds.
Growing Trend of Pitch Protests
This latest invasion continues a worrying trend of political and social protests disrupting sporting events across the country. While the specific motivations behind targeting Gary Neville remain unclear, the incident demonstrates how football stadiums are increasingly becoming venues for public demonstrations.
Both clubs are expected to release statements condemning the invasion, while the Football Association has confirmed it will be reviewing the incident as part of its ongoing crackdown on pitch invasions.
