Turbulent scenes unfold as police and Crystal Palace supporters clash before Arsenal match at Emirates

Ahead of Saturday's Premier League game in north London, Crystal Palace's away fans faced an unusual situation as their drum was confiscated.

Why Police Clashed Before Arsenal Vs Crystal Palace At Emirates
Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Before Saturday’s Premier League match in north London, the away fans experienced an unusual incident where their drum was confiscated. Unpleasant scenes unfolded before kick-off as visiting supporters clashed with the police. Officers in high-visibility jackets were witnessed entering the away section and confiscating a drum.

The police’s decision to take action appeared to be triggered by Palace fans setting off a flare. This led to a confrontation in the away end, culminating in the authorities removing the drum. It’s worth noting that, despite the tradition of Eagles fans using drums, Arsenal’s matchday stadium regulations explicitly prohibit the use of musical instruments.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his team’s eagerness ahead of kick-off, stating, “We recharged, re-energised and have been very clear with each other what to expect, and then attack the second half of the season.”

In their upcoming fixtures, Arsenal will face Nottingham Forest in the Premier League before hosting Liverpool, while Crystal Palace is set to play against Sheffield United on Tuesday.

Arsenal performance and stats

Arsenal

Manager: Mikel Arteta
Rank 1st
Win 24
Draw 5
Loss 5
Goals 82-26
Diff 56

Arsenal is currently 3rd in the Premier League with 43 points.

In the last 21 games, it has won 13 times, drawn 4 times, and lost 4 times. In its last match, Arsenal won 5-0 against Crystal Palace.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 42 goals and conceding 20.​

Arsenal will play the next match in Premier League against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday 30th of January in Nottingham.​

Crystal Palace performance and stats

Crystal Palace

Manager: Oliver Glasner
Rank 14th
Win 10
Draw 9
Loss 15
Goals 44-56
Diff -12

Crystal Palace is currently 14th in the Premier League with 21 points.

In the last 21 games, it has won 5 times, drawn 6 times, and lost 10 times. In its last match, Crystal Palace lost 5-0 against Arsenal.​​

It has a negative goal difference after scoring 22 goals and conceding 34.​

Crystal Palace will play the next match in Premier League against Sheffield United on Tuesday 30th of January in London.​