A Southampton season ticket holder has been hit with a three-year ban after storming the pitch during the fiery derby clash against Portsmouth last month.

Daniel Small’s Blistering Blunder

Daniel Small, 35, sparked chaos when he vaulted over the advertising boards from the Kingsland Stand at St Mary’s Stadium. His sudden pitch invasion stopped play dead in its tracks.

Before his dash onto the pitch, the Wilman Way resident had thrown a lighter during a Portsmouth throw-in, targeting winger Josh Murphy. Security quickly identified Small as the culprit.

Court Slams Fan with Banning Order and Fine

Small pleaded guilty at Southampton Magistrates Court to two charges: throwing a missile and entering the playing area unlawfully. He was fined £445 and handed a tough three-year Football Banning Order.

Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson, who led policing at the game, slammed Small’s antics:

“We were clear ahead of this game that disruption would not be tolerated but sadly this so-called fan ignored those warnings.”

“Thanks to the swift actions of our officers and security team at St Mary’s Stadium, he is facing the consequences of his foolish actions that threatened to ruin the game for everyone.”

“That brief appearance on the pitch has resulted in a much lengthier appearance in court that has left him with a criminal record and a banning order preventing him from going to see his team play for three years.”

“I hope this sends a clear message that just because you are surrounded by thousands of people, you cannot hide away if you commit crime.”

“We work closely with clubs using a variety of different tactics to ensure those intent on causing disruption and threatening the safety of others are dealt with.”

Swift Justice After Derby Drama

The pitch invasion happened in the 38th minute of the derby before Small was hauled off the field by stewards. The incident came barely moments after security tried to remove him for the lighter-throwing offense.

Small’s ban sends a no-nonsense warning to fans: don’t mess with matchday safety or you’ll pay the price.