heavy handed
Stoke fans ‘pepper-sprayed by police’ during half-time of Preston clash as investigation is launched
Fans were left in agony on the concourse but a statement from Lancashire police claim they used 'proportionate force'
STOKE CITY have demanded an explanation from police after a video appeared to show their supporters being pepper-sprayed by officers.
Fans were left in agony after the police claimed they used "proportionate force" during Stoke's 2-2 draw at Preston on Saturday.
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A video doing the rounds online showed the officers and fans facing off on the concourse but with no signs of violence.
Police claim that Stoke fans were "attempting for forcibly exit the stadium" and officers were met "with many aggressive fans."
The clip shows the travelling away fans singing towards the police but no signs of any disturbance.
A statement from Lancashire police said: "There was an incident of disorder inside the stadium involving a number of Stoke supporters, who were attempting to forcibly exit the stadium,
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"Officers deployed were faced with many aggressive fans and used proportionate force to protect themselves and ensure the disorderly fans did not spill out into the surrounding area.
"As a result of this action, the situation was quickly brought under control and all fans returned to the stadium, where they watched the match without further disruption."
Stoke say they are aware of the footage and have asked for a comment from the police.
One fan said online: "It was appalling and a complete overreaction. I only got hit with the mist from it but it still hurts. The police sprayed people who were just asking to leave."
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