Crystal Palace fans in court for trashing train carriage before London derby (From Croydon Guardian)

Crystal Palace fans in court for trashing train carriage before London derby

1:00pm Wednesday 13th February 2013 in News

A mob of nearly 100 football yobs terrified commuters by letting off fireworks at a packed railway station and tearing apart a train carriage, a court was told last week.

Police had led the throng of Crystal Palace fans to London Bridge station so they could travel to an away game at Charlton on September 14 last year.

But officers were unable to prevent the fans ripping out train seats, and hurling light bulbs over the heads of shocked commuters, Westminster Magistrates' Court heard.

Seven Palace supporters allegedly responsible for the rush hour disorder were charged with trashing a packed South Eastern train.

Prosecutor Zahid Hussain said fireworks were also thrown at the station but stressed none of the defendants had been accused of throwing them.

Four pleaded guilty to offences while three will stand trial later this year.

Robert Dering, 36, and Tony Foster, 30 both of New Addington are among the fans to admit to criminal damage and using threatening behaviour.

Ten fans were arrested after trouble broke out during and the return fixture at Selhurst Park ten days ago, which Crystal Palace won 2-1.

Charlton fans rampaged down a residential street smashing cars and damaging residents’ property.