08 December 2023 , 19:01
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A leading Everton fan group has slammed Sky Sports over their coverage of the protests that preceded their game with Newcastle on Thursday night.
Amid an electric atmosphere at Goodison Park, Sean Dyche's side prevailed 3-0 to lift themselves out of the relegation zone, despite being deducted 10 points by the Premier League last month for FFP regulations. And both prior to and during the game, home fans again made themselves heard over what they perceive as a harsh punishment from the authorities.
Prior to the clash, Sky Sports News opted to broadcast away from the stadium, implying it was potentially dangerous to have a film crew near to the ground. And reporter Sanny Rudravajhala clarified the decision live on air before kick-off.
"We're on the Wirral, we're on the other side of the river Mersey, and partly that's because - I'll be honest - we know Everton fans are continuing to feel really frustrated and upset about this points deduction," he said. "There's a plan for a protest at the game, a planned protest in the 10th minute as well as course, and as broadcasters we want to keep away from any trouble."
That footage has since prompted a response from the 1878 group, who reposted the report on social media. And they argued that Rudravajhala and co gave a false impression over the nature of their actions.
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"As a group, we are extremely disappointed with @SkySportsPL @SkySportsNews coverage before last nights game (shown in the video below)," they wrote. "Prior to our game yesterday, the group along with thousands of fellow Evertonians had held two protests at both our home game against Manchester United, and away at Nottingham Forest.
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"Both of these protests, along with our one last night, at home against Newcastle United have been impeccable, successful and passed off without any incidents at all. The protests have all been held in a respectful manner, therefore we do not appreciate @SkySportsNews reporting that they were staying away from any trouble at Goodison Park."
The group also claimed that the report implied Goodison Park was "comparable to a dangerous war zone." That's despite Rudravajhala himself later tweeting: “Goodison Park under the lights. Few better sights in English football. Will miss it when it’s gone”.
The statement also denied "Evertonians (have) been violent or dangerous in any way," and said it was an "absolute disgrace" from Sky Sports to suggest otherwise. The game itself was shown live on Amazon Prime, who covered all 10 midweek Premier League matches.
Rudravajhala has since responded on the same platform and apologised, but claimed he only used the word "trouble" in relation to potential bad language on air. He also confirmed Sky could not be at the actual ground due to Amazon rights.
"But I am sorry for the upset I've caused," he wrote. "One person in particular sent me a very heartfelt message on that front. You're always learning aren't you - so I've read every message and obviously reflected on what I would do differently, if ever reporting again."