Liverpool fans defy social distancing to celebrate first English title in 30 years
Liverpool fans took to the streets outside Anfield on Thursday night as the club clinched their first ever Premier League title.
The Merseyside club secured their first English football league crown with seven games to go after Chelsea's victory over Manchester City meant they couldn't be caught at the top of table.
Hundreds of fans had gathered outside the Main Stand of their Anfield stadium even before the full time whistle went in West London, with celebrations then going on into the early hours of Friday morning.
Although many Liverpool supporters instead celebrated at home in 'social bubbles' while lockdown guidance remained in place, police criticised the fans who gathered in large numbers outside the club's ground.
Assistant Chief Constable Rob Carden said Merseyside had been “disproportionately affected” by the coronavirus pandemic and its residents had a responsibility to prevent further cases.
He said: “The overwhelming majority of fans have recognised the fact that now is not the time to gather together to celebrate, and chose to mark the event safely. They are a credit to this city.
“Unfortunately, as we have seen throughout the lockdown period, not everyone adhered to the regulations in place. Although the vast majority of celebrations were good natured, a large number of people chose to gather outside the stadium.”
Many fans wore face masks for the gathering and shortly before 11pm, Merseyside Police announced road closures would be put in place.
Police officers could be seen in the area as fans celebrated but no attempts were made to disperse the good-natured crowd.
Liverpool City Council told fans to “have a great party” but maintain social distancing as they celebrated.
The Premier League restarted earlier this month after pausing due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with games now played behind closed doors.
