THE shine was taken off an historic day for Chester FC as crowd trouble marred the first match since their rebirth.
Chester were trailing 2-0 to Colwyn Bay at Llanelian Road this afternoon when a group of 15 to 20 travelling supporters clashed with police and security working on behalf of the North Wales club.
The match was held up for a couple of minutes before the fracas calmed down – but by that time a number of fans had already made the decision to leave as the police helicopter hovered overhead.
One Chester supporter was arrested following the incident. That followed two earlier arrests prior to the start of the pre-season friendly.
Superintendent Rob Kirman, of North Wales Police, said: “Lots of people have come here today – families, friends and their children – to enjoy the first game of the season, and the vast majority of Chester fans behaved impeccably and were enjoying the day.
“But a small number of Chester fans have got quite drunk before the start of the match. There was a slight disorder in the town centre that resulted in the arrest of two Chester fans. Then up at the ground we had another small disorder resulting in one further Chester fan being arrested for a public order offence.”
There were more than 1,500 Chester supporters in the 1,692 crowd – with many quick to show their displeasure at the actions of the fans involved in the flashpoint.
Chester chairman Chris Pilsbury said: “It has soured what should have been a really, good carnival event.”
Colwyn Bay president Roger Skinner added: “It’s a great shame what has happened because the majority of people were well behaved.”
After an encouraging first-half performance, Chester lost the game 2-0.
Colwyn Bay’s first goal was scored by 17-year-old substitute and former Chester City FC striker Ben Jones.
Chester FC rose from the ashes after Chester City FC were wound up in the High Court four months ago to this day.
