David Pilgrim of Dibden Purlieu sentenced at Southampton Crown Court after admitting violent disorder following match between Southampton FC and Tottenham Hotspur

A NEW Forest man who took part in a violent brawl between rival football fans has been jailed for more than two years.

The clash between supporters of Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur football clubs broke out around 6pm after a Premier League game on 18th March 2023.

Among the 23 being sentenced at Southampton Crown Court for violent disorder was David Pilgrim (47), of Wellington Close in Dibden Purlieu.

The court heard tensions flared in the city’s Terminus Terrace at the junction with Oxford Street, and saw fans from both sides launching tables, chairs and pint glasses at each other.

In CCTV footage released by Hampshire police the melee spills out onto the road, with the men shouting profanities and jeering at one another.

Pilgrim was handed a 26-month prison sentence alongside an eight-year football ban.

During sentencing today (Friday), the court heard Pilgrim was caught on CCTV throwing a bottle, and had initially claimed he did so to protect his son, before withdrawing that basis for plea.

Prosecutor Simon Jones said Pilgrim had also thrown a chair during the melee.

Defending, Mark Florida-James said his client was under the influence of alcohol, and was concerned his family would lose their home if he was sent to jail.

He admitted that Pilgrim had to face his actions and that he was embarrassed and ashamed about his part in the brawl.

Judge Rowland pointed to Pilgrim’s previous involvement in football-related disorder incidents before passing sentence.

Commenting on the case, Chief Inspector Stuart Ratcliffe, who oversaw the investigation, said: "The behaviour displayed by these men was completely shocking and absolutely unacceptable.

"Members of the public had to flee the area as these men put innocent bystanders at risk of serious harm.

"We have dedicated officers from our Football Unit working alongside clubs as part of our ongoing efforts to reduce incidents like this with fans.

"We know that the vast majority of those attending football matches have no intention of involving themselves in scenes of violent disorder like this.

"However, for the minority who ruin events like these for the rest, our message is that we will not tolerate any violence and we will take action against you."