Manchester United staff handled a confusing situation very well, says SCMP sport reporter caught up in Old Trafford fiasco

There was an atmosphere of confusion and disappointment among soccer fans who were at the abandoned Premier League match between Manchester United and Bournemouth at Old Trafford yesterday, but stadium staff handled a potentially tricky situation with distinction.

“It was all a bit weird more than anything,” said White. “It was concerning because of the sheer number of people that were being evacuated from the stadium, but it was more confusing than frightening.”

Parts of Old Trafford were evacuated by police shortly before the scheduled kick-off yesterday after the discovery of a suspect device in a bathroom. The club and spectators were later praised for their calm response in clearing the stadium.

After initially delaying the kick-off, authorities decided the game should be abandoned before an army bomb disposal unit was called in to remove the device. The suspect package was later found to have been a fake ‘bomb’ used by a private firm as part of a training exercise conducted at the ground prior to the match.

“People stayed calm and the ground stewards handled the situation professionally. It was very well organised, although I’m sure it must have been frightening for people leaving the stadium through the tunnels (beneath the Sir Alex Fergsuon and Stretford End stands),” added White.