A West Ham United fan has become an internet sensation after a video of him defending the players’ families during the Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar went viral.
The incident occurred following West Ham’s 1-0 away win that secured their spot in the tournament’s final.
Approximately 100 AZ Alkmaar ultras were left furious by the jubilant celebrations of the West Ham fans after Pablo Fornals scored the decisive goal at the AFAS Stadium.
Amidst the chaos, several West Ham stars quickly rushed over to protect their loved ones from the advancing ultras.
However, one brave supporter emerged as the true hero in this tense situation. Chris Knolls, a die-hard West Ham fan, stood resolutely between the 100 hooligans and the section where the players’ families were seated, single-handedly fending off their assault.
Knolls displayed incredible courage as he fearlessly defended the vulnerable section, putting his own safety at risk. Despite his valiant efforts, he suffered a badly bruised left eye during the encounter. However, his actions did not go unnoticed.
The video capturing Knolls’ heroic act quickly spread across social media platforms.
Two West Ham v around a hundred balaclava’d cowards.
Well done Knollsy. Protecting the players families ????
— ????? ????? ????? ??? (@Chris_Mills_) May 19, 2023
One fan took to Twitter to share how Knolls had battled illness two years ago and received a supportive message from West Ham star Declan Rice, which played a significant role in his recovery.
In 2021, when Knollsy was in a bad shape, @_DeclanRice left him this message. He always says it’s what made him recover. The man is West Ham through and through and would have done anything to protect our fans tonight. pic.twitter.com/wjP1kBrGmv
— freddie bonfanti (@freddiebonfa) May 19, 2023
That man deserves a lifetime ticket for him & 5 mates
Put his welfare in harm’s way to protect loved 1s of his beloved ⚒️
From a LFC fan, YNWA
Fellow Kopite here lad, couldnt agree more. Knollsy is a legend, lad shouldnt have to pay for a beet or a ticket on matchdays for the next few seasons
Never a doubt in your head to hide away .Total respect to you .
WHU will know what to do to make this man a lifetime season ticket holder along with his friends who were there to support him .I hope you win the final.Good luck .
NUFC
We’ll done fella incredible bravery we salute you from a die hard port vale fan 💪👏👏
He should never have to pay for a season ticket again at the london stadium along with his pals who helped
Well done you Knollsy
Fair play Knollsy, you put yourself in grave danger to protect innocent people who went to watch and support their team! Good on ya bud. The hierarchy at WHU F.C should give and brothers a lifetime season ticket for your unwavering bravery to protect supporters and families of the players! Top bloke🙏👍👊
Top man big fella , sorted 100 gutless ass clowns, hey West ham do the right thing a whip round wouldn’t go amiss. Swfc. Ocs
One of the old guard
Nothing more needs to be said
The club needs to do the right thing by the man
Legend Knollsy
Top geezer
“ Though shall not pass”
Surely the chub can see there way and get him to the final all expenses paid
Well done the Big Fellah we need a lot more of your sort 👍.
A true gentle giant and a credit to your family friends and support for your beloved team well done SIR
He did what he did to protect the players families. The guys a hero .
No more paying for beers or season tickets at West ham for this guy .
Well done knollsy , top man , from a stoke city fan
The guys a hero .
No more paying for beers or season tickets at West ham for this guy .
Well done knollsy , top man , from a stoke city fan
The true “Spirit of 69”. And a “GOODC#NT” to boot! Love ya work Knollsy. You and your wingmen deserve your own ticket tape parade! Along with lifetime members tickets. Cheers from Adelaide, South Australia.
Well done mate 👊👊
Hopefully u will get to the final and see westham win and be a champion like u
Marky ipswich town fan
True hero
Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery. Hopefully West Ham will recognize and reward your act.
CTID