A Notts County fan has been banned from attending football matches for three years after running on the field of play for a £25 bet he made with a friend. Jake Pavier, from Keyworth, will be unable to watch the Magpie's return to the Football League after he jumped the barriers at Meadow Lane during a match against Halifax Town on January 28.
In the 86th minute, the 28-year-old ran across the pitch from the Derek Pavis stand into the 300-strong Jimmy Sirrel away end. He was detained by stewards before being handed to police.
Nottinghamshire Police said his behaviour posed a risk to the safety of fans, stewards and police. “Pavier’s actions could have potentially incited others to get involved in wider disorder," said Inspector Craig Berry.
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“The field of play is a player’s place of work. The players and staff should feel confident that they are protected and safe to fulfil their roles, without feeling fearful of being attacked.
"Football banning orders are not the panacea to end all football-related offences, however on these occasions they are necessary to prevent further offences and deter others." A Notts County spokesperson added: “This punishment serves as evidence of how seriously the authorities consider offences of this nature.
"Not only will individuals who enter the field of play face strong punishment, they can also bring heavy fines upon their own club. Our message to supporters is to keep off the pitch at all times."
Pavier, of Wolds Drive, Keyworth, pleaded guilty to going onto the playing area at a football match, contrary to the Football (Offences) Act. As well as the banning order, he was fined £138, ordered to pay £85 costs and a £55 victim surcharge when he appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, June 7.
Pavier has now been banned from entering any premises for the purpose of attending any football matches in the UK for the duration of his order. He must also adhere to a number of other conditions, including notifying the football banning orders authority of any changes in any of his names, home/temporary address, and receipt of any new travel authorisation.
If Pavier breaches any of the conditions, he could face up to six months in prison, a hefty fine, or both.
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