Liverpool emphasizes that enhanced security protocols, which include «100 percent searches» at Anfield, have been implemented to ensure the club aligns with the policies adopted at other Premier League locations.
This adjustment took effect last month, with stewards now scanning every supporter at Anfield before they are allowed entry into the venue.
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Consequently, many fans have experienced longer wait times to access the stadium, leading to complaints on social media about protracted queues, with some supporters missing Hugo Ekitike’s goal just 46 seconds into Saturday’s match against Brighton.
Supporter Chris Wellman commented on X: «Hundreds of us missed the first Ekitike goal. Queues winding around everywhere. People are unsure where to line up. There aren’t enough stewards with scanners to expedite the process. Those with bags are taking forever to get checked. The main stand turnstiles today were a nightmare!»
Fan Peter Connolly shared: «I arrived 10 minutes late to the stadium but got through turnstile T 30 minutes later than usual and didn’t reach my seat until four minutes had passed.»
Neil Atkinson from The Anfield Wrap tweeted on December 3, prior to Liverpool’s game against Sunderland: «Queues ridiculous outside the ground again.»
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Fan Paul Senior, who also writes for The Anfield Wrap, posted: «The only time I feel at risk at Anfield is while waiting in line. They are there to avert a terror threat, yet you’re gathering hundreds/thousands of individuals outside. It’s contradictory.»
What comments has Liverpool made regarding the queues?
The club has advised fans to arrive 10 minutes earlier than normal to avoid delays [Getty Images]
The additional protocols have not been implemented due to a specific incident, and Liverpool maintains that they are consistent with security measures taken at other significant events.
In correspondence with ticket holders, the club has encouraged fans to arrive 10 minutes earlier than usual. Additional resources have also been deployed at the turnstiles.
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In November, the club outlined the adjustments to supporters, stating: «Fans are recommended to arrive early at Anfield, with turnstiles opening two hours prior to kick-off for general admission and three hours earlier for hospitality, ensuring adequate time for the required checks before entering.»
«More resources have been deployed at turnstiles to ensure this crucial safety and security update minimally affects the overall match experience for fans.»
Given the feedback, the process is still disconcerting for some fans and remains relatively new for stewards and staff to manage.
BBC Sport has reached out to Liverpool FC to inquire if the club is exploring ways to enhance the efficiency of this process.
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