Fans told of change to human rights law fans

Rotherham United made the announcement about its planned safety measures ahead of tomorrow’s South Yorkshire derby with Sheffield United.

It said officials had “drawn up plans in conjunction with South Yorkshire Police to try and facilitate the safest possible exit strategy from the ground for all supporters leaving New York Stadium”.

At the end of the League One game, which kicks off at 3pm, home fans will be directed towards Don Street while away supporters will exit via New York Way, leading to Main Street.

But a statement on the club’s website said: “Due to recent changes to human rights legislation over the past few years it is no longer possible to ‘hold back’ any particular group of supporters.

“These restrictions are anticipated to be in place for up to 20 minutes after the final whistle has blown. We would like to thank all supporters for their co-operation and hope everyone enjoys this weekend’s local derby.”

Rotherham United declined to comment further about why they were no longer holding back supporters after games.

The club also announced that all tickets for the match have now been sold and no more would be made available.

A statement on its website said: “As per Football League Ground Regulations any Sheffield United supporters found to be sitting in the home end of the ground will be ejected and further action may follow.”

It is also planning to open its club shop and ticket office for half an hour after the match on a trial basis, starting from tomorrow.

The New York Stadium opened in July last year and Rotherham have been playing their home games there since last season.

The Millers played Sheffield United in one of the ground’s first fixtures in July last year, before going on to win promotion from League Two after finishing second in the division.