A BLACKBURN Rovers steward was assaulted as he tried to eject an away fan who fell over a seat.

Blackburn magistrates heard the teenage Barnsley supporter claimed he was “tipsy” after drinking eight pints and two whiskies prior to the match.

Thomas Timothy Gibson, 19, of Castle View, Birdwell, Barnsley, pleaded guilty to assaulting Jason Seddon. He was fined £300 and ordered to pay £50 compensation, £85 costs and £32 victim surcharge.

He was made subject to a Football Banning Order for three years.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said Mr Seddon was working in the Darwen End supervising Barnsley fans during the match on November 23. He saw Gibson fall over the seats and when he approached could see he was drunk.

“The defendant tried to run off but as Mr Seddon caught up with him he turned and threw a punch which connected with his mouth,” said Mrs Yates.

Scott Parker, defending, said his client had no previous convictions.

“He has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity and has no representations to make about the football banning order,” said Mr Parker.