Nottingham Forest Fan Jailed For Head-Butting Sheffield United Captain Billy Sharp After Play-Off Semi-Final

A man has been jailed for 24 weeks for head-butting Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp after Tuesday's Championship play-off semi-final against Nottingham Forest.

Robert Biggs, 30, from Ilkeston, Derbyshire admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm, which left Sharp requiring four stitches to a wound on his face.

A separate charge of illegally entering the playing surface was dropped.

Forest season ticket holder Biggs was jailed at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on Thursday.

He appeared in court in custody and did not oppose an application for a football banning order during the hearing.

Passing sentence, District Judge Grace Leong told Biggs: "The video clip proves to me that you were running towards Billy Sharp and that you dodged all the other spectators to get towards him.

"I am of the view that it was a targeted act of aggression... even if it was not premeditated.

"The forceful impact resulted in a very unpleasant injury to Mr Sharp. You must have seen him fall over but you did not stop to check if he was alright or whether he was seriously injured.

"This is so serious that a custodial sentence must be imposed."

Biggs was also ordered to pay Sharp £500 in compensation, as well as £85 in costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

On Tuesday, Sheffield United came from two goals down to level the tie at 3-3 on aggregate.

After a goalless period of extra-time, the match went to penalties – with Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba proving to be hero.

He saved three penalties to help send Forest through to the play-off final at Wembley on May 29, where they will face Huddersfield.

Speaking after the defeat, Sharp congratulated Forest on their victory and thanked fans for their messages of support following the assault.

"One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football," the 36-year-old wrote on Instagram.

"Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on their victory and good luck in the final.

"As an ex-Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.

"Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players. They gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again.

"Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident."