Liverpool fans who celebrated the club’s title win in the city center for the second night were told to leave by police.
The Reds ended their 30-year wait for a top-flight crown on Thursday night, as Chelsea beat Manchester City 2-1 to ensure Jurgen Klopp’s side could not reach the top of the table.
Liverpool fans celebrate outside Anfield / OLI Scarf / Getty Images
Since then, some fans have been celebrating in Liverpool city centre, defying social distancing protocols in the process. Flares have been used in celebrations and, according to the Guardian, emergency services were called to deal with a small fire after a fireworks display near the Lever Building hit.
Former Stoke City forward Jonathan Walters has posted a video showing fans deliberately setting off fireworks at the historic building.
Crowds have been urged to stay at home by police who imposed a Section 34 dispersal order on Saturday morning, which prevents fans from gathering in the city centre.
You couldn’t make it…
Aim the fireworks and set the liver building on fire as it is lit up in blue. This is the same building used for the crest on the club they are celebrating in??♂️ pic.twitter.com/QLw6h69tfS
— Jonathan Walters (@JonWalters19) June 26, 2020
“We know many Liverpool fans want to celebrate their Premier League win, but there’s a time and a place for that – and this weekend is none of them,” said Order via BBC News. was read.
“Tonight we have seen large numbers of people in the Pierhead area increasing the risk of the spread of Covid-19.”
The city’s mayor, Joe Anderson – who had previously warned that such scenes were likely if the Reds were crowned champions – was critical of fans who chose to gather in large numbers, and It was suggested that gatherings may contribute to other increases in the virus.
Anderson added that it was “disappointing, so was watching the scenes on the beach at Bournemouth”.
Most fans celebrate officiating after the Reds’ victory / John Kruger / Getty Images
“But if Chelsea or Manchester City had won the league, we would have seen the same scenes outside Stamford Bridge or the Etihad. We are where we are.”
Since the dispersal order was issued, Liverpool, Merseyside Police and supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly have issued a joint statement condemning large gatherings.
“Over the past week, Liverpool Football Club, Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and Spirit of Shankly have worked together to remind people that the region is still disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. is inspired by and asks people to celebrate LFC’s Premier League title win in a safe manner,” the statement read.
Joint statement by LFC, Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council.
— Liverpool FC (Premier League Champions?) (@LFC) June 27, 2020
“Our city is still in a public health crisis and this behavior is completely unacceptable.
“The potential risk of a second peak of COVID-19 is still there and we need to work together to ensure that we do not undo everything we have achieved as a region during the lockdown. .
“When it is safe to do so, we will all organize a victory parade when everyone can come together to celebrate. Until then, the safety of our city and our people will remain our top priority.”