Most people have seen the movie!
“Welcome to Fight Club. The first rule of Fight Club is: you do not talk about Fight Club.”
The rules are a little different when it comes to players versus fans. Things can sometimes get a little heated on the field or in the stands.
There’ve been some memorable clashes of fans sharing their feelings with players on the field. We’ve put together a list of some of the more memorable player vs fan clashes over the years.
In the words of Michael Buffer, “Let’s get ready to rumble!”
Sergio Agüero v Wigan Fan 2018
For City supporters, the only thing worse than losing to a side like Wigan would be dropping a game to United or even Arsenal. City were expected to easily account for the weaker opposition in the FA Cup clash with Wigan. Things went pear-shaped for City when one of their players was sent off and Wigan scored the winner in the last few minutes of ordinary time. Wigan fans stormed the field in celebration and City Striker Sergio Agüero took exception to the feedback he received from a Wigan fan.
Eric Cantona v Crystal Palace Fan 1992
The talented Manchester United striker was known for his brilliance on the field and his short fuse. Cantona exploded at Crystal Palace when he launched a kung-fu kick at fan Matthew Simons. Cantona had been sent off and Simmons ran down to the sidelines to abuse Cantona. The Frenchman reacted with a flying kick that added to his legend in the famed red shirt.
Andrew Symonds v Gabba Streaker 2008
Andrew Symonds was one of those mercurial talents that divided the Australian cricket team. The big all-rounder captured the headlines for his shoulder charge on a streaker during an ODI against India at the Gabba. It was suggested by some sections of the media that Symonds could have been charged under the ICC player’s code of conduct. Common sense prevailed, and Symonds escaped censure from the authorities.
Detroit Pistons vs Indiana Pacers – Ron Artest 2004
The worst brawl in NBA history occurred during the clash between the Pacers and the Pistons. A fight broke out between the players in the last minute of play. Pacers player, Ron Artest rushed into the stands after he was struck by a fan’s drink. Considered to be the worst brawls in NBA history, nine players were suspended for 146 games and $11 million in fines were handed out.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnoFf3RnxaY
John Snow v SCG Fan – 1971
English paceman John Snow drew the ire of the SCG crowd after he struck Aussie tailender Terry Jenner in the head with a bouncer, during the Final Ashes Test. Snow returned to the boundary line after his over and was pelted with beer cans. Plastic cups hadn’t been introduced yet and Snow was attacked by a fan close to the boundary line. England won the match to reclaim the Ashes.
Rob Ray v Quebec NHL Fan – 1992
Rob Ray was one of the NHL’s most vicious enforcers, spending a total of 3207 in the penalty box. Ray was known for removing his gear during fights with fellow players to gain an advantage. The league at the time had to implement the “Rob Ray Rule.” The rule added more serious charges to players who removed their pads and gloves during altercations. After a trip to the penalty box against the Quebec Nordiques, Ray was attacked by an opposition fan. Acting on a bet, the fan jumped the ice and made it to the penalty area. Ray landed 18 blows on the fan before security intervened to save him from Ray.
Utah Jazz Mascot v Cavs Fan – 2011
Real or fake you’ll have to decide on this one. NBA mascots are notorious for getting the fans involved in the game. At a Utah Jazz home game, a visiting Cavs fan took chased the mascot on to the court before he was led away by security.
Boston Bruins vs MSG -1979
Affectionately known as ‘the shoe brawl’ amongst NHL aficionados, the Bruins team of the era had a penchant for fisticuffs. The Bruins jumped into the grandstand to square off against the Rangers fans after one of their players was attacked. One of the Bruins players smacked a fan in the face with the fan’s own shoe. The fallout saw the NHL raise the height of the glass to ensure players could not climb into the stands to take on the fans.
Seahawks v Jaguars – 2017
NFL players are generally well behaved in the modern era. While no punches were thrown, a Seahawks player attempts to jump into the stands after being ejected from the game. Quentin Jefferson exploded after being taunted by opposition fans, attempting to climb into the stands. Security guards were able to hold him back before the situation escalated.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k43EgzAl8fo
Adelaide United v Ball Boy 2017
The Australian version of the FFA Cup exploded when Adelaide United player Michael Marrone attacked a ball boy. In the dying minutes of the match, Marrone tackled the ball boy while trying to retrieve the ball for a throw-in. His actions started an all-in brawl between the two sides. Marrone received a red card for his actions and the ball-boy was invited to lift the trophy with the Sydney FC side.