Police have opened a formal investigation after footage emerged of a man kicking a rugby ball from a balcony overlooking the Gtech Community Stadium and onto the pitch during Liverpool's 2-1 Premier League victory over Brentford last Saturday.

Brentford refer incident to authorities

Brentford confirmed the referral in a club statement issued on Monday, describing the individual's conduct as "dangerous and potentially very harmful." The club said it is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities to help identify those responsible and ensure appropriate action is taken.

"Brentford Football Club is aware of an incident involving an item being kicked from a height towards the field of play during Saturday's match against Liverpool," the statement read. "Such behaviour is dangerous and potentially very harmful. The matter has been referred to the police and the club is supporting the relevant authorities in their investigation to help identify those responsible and take appropriate action."

The club also warned that the individual's actions could result in criminal prosecution, and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all fans, players, staff, and match officials at the Gtech Community Stadium.

The incident and its aftermath

Video circulating on social media appears to show the moment a man kicked the rugby ball from a raised balcony adjacent to the ground, sending it flying onto the pitch below. A separate clip shows a member of stadium staff retrieving the ball from the field, accompanied by the caption: "Wrong sport, mate." Laughter and cheering from bystanders can also be heard in the footage. Liverpool Football Club had not issued a public comment at the time of writing.

Where both clubs stand in the Premier League

Liverpool's win moves the Reds to fifth in the Premier League table, with 12 points from seven matches. Brentford, who were reduced to 10 men during the contest against Andoni Iraola's side, drop to sixth on 10 points — their first defeat in the Premier League this season.

Liverpool are next scheduled to host Villarreal, while Brentford travel to face Hull City at the MKM Stadium on Sunday.