FA Rules E20&21: due diligence in practice

David Phillips QC has chaired another FA Regulatory Commission considering the proper application of FA Rules E20 and 21. The incident in question occurred during Arsenal’s home match against Manchester United when a supporter ran onto the pitch, came into contact with a Manchester United player, and joined in the Arsenal players’ celebration the vicinity of the Manchester United goalmouth. The Commission gave guidance for the proper application of the first limb of the Rule E21 due diligence defence. The Commission found that Arsenal was able to establish the due diligence defence and dismissed the charge. The Written Reasons can be read here.