Hooligan gets four-year ban

A football hooligan who was at the forefront of "moronic" violence that erupted after the derby match between Wolves and West Bromwich Albion has been banned from matches for four years.

And the judge who dished out the sentence warned other fans involved in the Wolverhampton city centre violence they could face jail.

Father-of-three Daniel McGowan pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court yesterday following disturbances on Stafford Street after the derby last month.

McGowan, aged 40, of March End Road, Wednesfield, was given a two-month sentence suspended for two years and 200 hours community service.

District Judge Shamim Qureshi also banned him from attending any football matches until 2011. He told McGowan he had kept out of trouble before but the football match had turned him into a "mindless hooligan".

He said: "Your behaviour was nothing less than moronic. That sort of behaviour will not be tolerated."

Emma Ruff, prosecuting, said McGowan was part of a crowd who clashed with police after Wolves' 3-0 defeat. "Mr McGowan was described as being at the forefront of that group," she said.

Ian Henry, defending, said McGowan had sunk four or five pints before the incident and regretted his actions.

Judge Qureshi warned other supporters they could face at least a suspended sentence for the violence on January 28 when they come before the courts.

McGowan was also ordered to pay £43 in costs.