Yesterday six Walsall supporters were given a variety of punishments ranging from imprisonment to banning orders following an outbreak of violence before Walsall Football Club's trip to Shrewsbury Town last October.Amongst them was father-of-four, Arron Arrowsmith, who was sentenced to nine months in prison after he admitted his part in the violence, during which a police officer's leg was broken whilst he was attempting to stop a brawl which started in front of horrified shoppers in Mardol before spilling out across Smithfield Road in Shrewsbury town centre.
Also jailed after admitting violent disorder were James Ross, who said he only went to the match to accompany a younger relative, and Neil Robinson, who said he had muscled in to protect a friend who was terminally ill with cancer, he received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. Robinson was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and handed a four-year ban.
Michael Edwards, received a six-month jail term, suspended for two years, and a four-year ban after admitting violent disorder. Along with Mark Walters and Dean Stone, were ordered to do 250 hours of unpaid work, received a four-year ban and must pay £500 costs after admitting violent disorder.
Over twenty-eight supporters, from both clubs, have been charged with various offences following the brawl, Police continue to investigate.
Partial source: The Shropshire Star