A Bristol City fan has been banned from attending football matches for three years after being caught throwing a can of alcohol at a Cardiff pub during pre-match disorder last month.
Arrested After Being Spotted at Stadium
Mackenzie Bailey, 18, thought he had escaped after hurling a can at O’Neill’s pub in Cardiff city centre before the Championship match between Cardiff City and Bristol City on February 15.
However, he was later spotted at Cardiff City Stadium by police, who recognised his bright ginger hair in the away section, leading to his arrest at half-time.
Pre-Match Disorder in Cardiff
Footage played at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court showed a large group of Bristol City fans gathering outside O’Neill’s and Wetherspoon pubs on St Mary Street.
Bailey was seen on video throwing a can at the O’Neill’s signage, causing alcohol to spray on impact. Witnesses described Bristol City fans shouting at pub customers and police officers before being dispersed by police.
Court Hears Bailey Was ‘Swept Up’ in Crowd
Bailey’s solicitor, Maxine Twynam, admitted her client was ashamed of his actions.
“Mackenzie is ashamed of the way he behaved that day. He has no excuses. He was swept up in the crowd and made a stupid decision.”
She also revealed his family was disappointed and that his mother supported a football banning order.
Bailey’s employer described him as one of his hardest workers and was shocked by his arrest, highlighting his commitment to his job as a renderer and plasterer.
However, the court heard that Bailey had previously received a caution for another football-related public order offence the previous year, when he was involved in a minor scuffle.
Football Ban and Fine Imposed
Presiding Justice Mark Hughes warned Bailey that prison was an option, telling him:
“We will decide if you are going through that door or that door.”
After deliberating, the magistrates sentenced Bailey to:
• A three-year football banning order
• A £500 fine
• A £200 victim services surcharge
• £85 prosecution costs
• £100 monthly payment plan
Bailey was also barred from attending England matches and will be required to surrender his passport when Bristol City or England play abroad.
“Three years is a long time not to go to a football match, and that is what you deserve,” Mr Hughes told him.
Bailey showed no emotion as he was sentenced but responded: “Yeah, definitely.”
Police Handling of Bristol City Fans Questioned
The pre-match disorder in Cardiff led to criticism of police management of Bristol City supporters’ travel to the stadium.
The incident sparked debate over whether bubble restrictions—which require away fans to be transported directly to and from stadiums under police supervision—should be introduced.
Bailey’s case serves as a warning about football-related disorder, reinforcing strict measures against disruptive fans.
