A FOOTBALL fan was left with a £305 legal bill for running onto the City Ground pitch during a match between Nottingham Forest and Derby County.
Nottingham Magistrates' Court heard this week that Rams fan Nicholas Harris reacted when he saw a Forest supporter run on to the pitch during the 1-1 draw on September 14.
Harris, 43, of Bestwood Road, Hucknall, did not attend court but had admitted entering the field of play.
He was fined £200 with £85 prosecution costs and a £20 government surcharge.
The court heard that the incident took place after Derby had scored a goal.
Harris was represented by solicitor Graham Heathcote, who was at the match.
He told District Judge Leo Pyle: "In the second half, a Forest supporter strolled onto the pitch. I was watching it happen and was amazed no-one went to apprehend him for causing this flashpoint. Nicholas Harris turned out to be the man I saw, with the object of confronting him.
"He had been to the football many times and never had any difficulties. He doesn't understand why he did what he did but had an amount to drink.
"He is entirely adamant he will never do anything like this again."
Sanjay Jerath, prosecuting, said: the incident took place shortly after Derby had scored a goal.
"When Derby scored, the defendant went onto the pitch, passed one security steward and was detained by the second.
"When interviewed, he said he was watching the football and saw a fan gain access from the stands. He said it was frustrating seeing a Forest fan on the pitch and went onto the pitch to confront him."
The court heard that Harris had recently been made redundant and was living off his remaining wages of £800. He hoped to find fresh work shortly and the judge gave him a week to clear the court bill.
Harris had never been in trouble before. The court was told the club had taken no action against him.
The Championship game ended 1-1 in front of a crowd of 30,227 people.
