Police hunt suspects after fans storm pitch in Rochdale semi-final chaos

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 09:21

By David Murphy

Officers are appealing for help in identifying individuals following pitch invasion and disorder after Rochdale v Spennymoor Town match

Greater Manchester Police have issued photos of individuals they wish to speak to after a pitch invasion disrupted the FA Trophy semi-final clash between Rochdale and Spennymoor Town on 5 April 2025.

The incident occurred at Crown Oil Arena, where visiting side Spennymoor secured victory. At the final whistle, fans from both teams flooded the pitch, prompting concerns over safety and order.

PC Rob Smith of GMP confirmed that while no arrests were made at the time, disorder broke out between rival supporters both inside the stadium and in the surrounding areas. “We were called after fans from both sides entered the pitch after the final whistle. Although the fans were quickly dispersed, disorder took place between both sets of supporters inside and outside the ground,” he said.

Additional police resources were deployed to the scene to manage the situation and disperse the crowd. However, tensions continued beyond the stadium, prompting the force to launch an investigation.

GMP has now released several photographs of individuals they believe may have information about the incident. They are urging anyone with relevant details to come forward.

The investigation remains ongoing, and members of the public with any information are encouraged to contact the police quoting log 1198 of 05/04/2025. Information can be reported by calling 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Online reporting tools are also available via the GMP website.

PC Smith emphasised that anyone found to have committed an offence will be pursued: “We will bring updates as we get them as the investigation continues.”