The hooligan epidemic reaches it's peak with two of biggest riots ever seen in British football. But then came a night that would change the game forever.
1985 saw some of the biggest and bloodiest hooligan riots in British football history. In March, Luton hosted Millwall in an FA Cup tie. Millwall鈥檚 notorious mobs rioted before, during and after the game. The Kenilworth Road ground was ripped to pieces, and the town was trashed. Police officer Andy Clarke was left fearing for his life as pieces of concrete and plastic seats were used as missiles.
Just two months later, Leeds and Birmingham鈥檚 mobs clashed at St Andrews. Hundreds were injured, and a 15-year-old football fan later lost his life.
But then came one of the darkest nights in football history. On 29 May 1985, 39 people were killed at the Heysel Stadium in Brussels during the European Cup final between Liverpool and Juventus. The tragedy led to English clubs being banned from European football for five years.
Presenter: Tony Bellew
Series Producer: Emma Forde
Producer: Patrick Kiteley
Technical Producer: Nicky Edwards
Development Producer: Holly Clemens
Production Co-ordinator: Ellie Dover
Assistant Commissioner: Lorraine Okuefuna & Sarah Green
Commissioning Editor: Louise Kattenhorn
Editor and Executive Producer: Carl Johnston
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Gangster
Tony Bellew uncovers the inside story of Britain鈥檚 football hooligans.
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