Share

Everton fan holding toddler jailed for brawling

London - An Everton fan who brawled with Lyon players during a match - whilst holding his dummy-sucking three-year-old son in his other arm - was jailed on Friday for eight weeks.

Michael Fitzpatrick, 30, held his son in his left arm whilst using his right to swing punches at opposition players in an incident near the byline during the Europa League clash at Goodison Park in October.

WATCH: Everton fan holding child 'punches' player

Fitzpatrick has said he felt "ashamed" by his behaviour and police branded him an idiot.

Fitzpatrick pleaded guilty to assault at a hearing on May 23.

He was given a six-year football banning order due to the serious aggravating factor of the assault taking place while holding a child.

"The police will not tolerate the selfish and idiotic actions of a few attempting to spoil a game of football," said Superintendent Dave Charnock of the Merseyside Police.

"We look to prosecute anyone who commits this type of behaviour."

Everton has banned Fitzpatrick for life from Goodison Park.

He lashed out during a byline shoving match, with the video footage going viral.

The incident happened during the second half of the Group E game in Liverpool, with Everton 1-0 down to the French visitors.

Everton defender Ashley Williams sparked a confrontation involving players from both sides after pushing Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to the ground in front of the Gwladys Street End.

While the players jostled with each other against the advertising hoardings, Fitzpatrick joined in the melee.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
loading... Live
Dolphins 138/4
Warriors RSA 161/4
loading... Live
Brighton and Hove Albion 0
Manchester City 1
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
64% - 443 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
36% - 245 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE