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Millwall & West Ham: A Century of Bitter Football Rivalry
19 Sep
Summary
- Former player recounts being hit by a brick during a match.
- Rivalry dates back over a century, fueled by historical and social divides.
- Match preparations include extensive police presence and facial recognition.
The historic and often volatile rivalry between Millwall and West Ham United, stretching back over a century, is set to reignite. This deep-seated animosity has roots in East London's industrial past and has been exacerbated by historical events and social divides.
Former players recall extreme incidents, such as being hit by projectiles, underscoring the intense atmosphere that has often characterized these encounters. The rivalry has seen periods of significant hooliganism, with notorious fan groups associated with both clubs, leading to frequent clashes and policing challenges.
Preparations for the upcoming fixture at The Den are extensive, with a substantial police presence and advanced surveillance technology being deployed. This reflects the ongoing concerns about potential crowd disturbances and the need to manage the fervent emotions of both sets of supporters.
Despite not meeting regularly in recent decades due to differing league statuses, the antipathy between Millwall and West Ham fans endures. This upcoming match is anticipated with great fervor, promising a continuation of one of English football's most notorious derbies.