Pablo Fornals wasn't the only West Ham hero on Thursday night after away supporters came under attack from AZ Alkmaar fans following their Europa Conference League clash.
Fornals struck a 94th minute winner to give the Hammers a 1-0 win on the night, with their 3-1 aggregate success sealing a first European final for 47 years. But the celebrations were cut short by ugly scenes at the AFAS Stadion, with friends and families of the away players among those to be targeted by black-shirted ultras.
A gate previously segregating the two sets of supporters was ripped away as the ultras charged at those who had made the trip from London, but the West Ham fans weren't about to be sitting ducks. Indeed, one fan in particular elevated his already high standing within the club by bravely staving off dozens of hooligans.
Pictures have emerged on social media of a man known as 'Knollsy' putting himself in the firing line and inadvertently protecting more vulnerable fans behind him. Despite a ripped top, he had no qualms about exchanging blows with balaclava wearing opponents.
Another man in the crowd, Freddie Bonfanti, hailed the brave actions, posting a photo on social media with the caption: “Knollsy the legend. Stopped the home fans from getting to the players’ families. Give him a ticket for the final."
Even Dutch fan @kochhardy hailed him a 'hero', whilst also lamenting the Alkmaar ultras: "Knollsy is a hero," he tweeted. "I feel ashamed about the intolerable aggressive unsporting behaviour of the Dutch supporters of AZ (Alkmaar). It’s disgusting what they did."
Other fans were also quick to hail his selfless behaviour, with @MontagueCusack adding: "Hats off to Knollsy for protecting the English women and children at #AZAlkmaar. Their 'ultras' got beaten by an old bloke with a hip replacement. They are now a laughing stock."
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The esteem with which Knollsy is held at the London Stadium was already evident back in 2021, when he was struggling with ill-health. It prompted West Ham star Declan Rice to post a social media video, where he addressed him personally and said: "I just want to send you the best of wishes from me and everyone at West Ham and we're all fighting for you mate."
Amid the trouble on Thursday, a number of West Ham's players looked to get involved, with the likes of Flynn Downes and Michail Antonio among those evidently concerned for family and friends. Uefa have confirmed they are awaiting full reports before taking disciplinary action against AZ and their supporters.
