Brentford have reported a supporter to the police after a rugby ball was kicked from a high-rise apartment towards the pitch during Saturday’s 2-1 defeat by Liverpool.
The incident was filmed and widely shared on social media, prompting the club to describe the behaviour as “dangerous and potentially harmful”.
Nobody appeared to be injured, but the ball landed close to the field of play at Gtech Community Stadium and was taken away by a member of staff.
It is believed to have been kicked from the Memento Kew Bridge apartment complex, which overlooks the stadium. Annual rents at the luxury development can reach £37,860, while each of its 487 flats has a private balcony. Many also provide VIP views of Brentford’s ground.
In a statement, Brentford said: “Brentford are aware of an incident involving an item being kicked from a height towards the field of play during Saturday’s match against Liverpool.
“Such behaviour is dangerous and potentially very harmful.
“The matter has been referred to the police and the club are supporting the relevant authorities in their investigation to help identify those responsible and take appropriate action, which may result in criminal prosecution.
“The matchday safety of fans, staff, players and officials is of utmost importance, and the club will support all efforts to ensure action is taken.”
London Irish played their home matches at the stadium between 2020 and 2023, before being suspended from the Premiership because of financial problems. However, the unexpected arrival of a rugby ball during this weekend’s fixture was unrelated to the club’s former use of the venue.
Liverpool complete comeback
Liverpool moved above Brentford in the Premier League with victory after the hosts took the lead through a header from Keane Lewis-Potter.
The game changed shortly before half-time when Brentford midfielder Yehor Yarmolyuk was sent off for headbutting Jeremy Jacquet.
Liverpool equalised through in-form winger Victor Munoz, before Alexander Isak completed the comeback by scoring his fifth goal of the season on his return from injury.
Brentford are sixth in the Premier League and are competing for European football after finishing ninth in Keith Andrews’ first season as manager.
The club are in an ambitious period under owner Matthew Benham and play at the £71m, 17,250-capacity stadium in west London, which opened in 2020.
The surrounding apartment blocks have attracted attention previously. In 2024, singer Noemi Oberhauser said men had contacted her on dates mainly because they wanted to visit her home and watch football from the window.
“I have quite a few people messaging me on Instagram about the apartment,” Oberhauser told What’s The Jam.
“Mostly offering to come to watch the match with me and turning it into a little date.
“A lot also comment saying things like ‘Marry me’. So, it is quite funny.”
