Quote: Cibaman "Most of the criticism seems to have been directed quite rightly at the police, but the one organisation that doesnt seem to be getting the blame it deserves is the FA. The match was staged in a stadium that didnt have a safety certificate and was entirely unsuitable.
Semi Finals were routinely played at Hillsborough at that time and it was clear every year that the Leppings Lane end was grossly over crowded. There was very nearly a similar disaster in 1981 when many fans were injured but fortunately not killed during the Spurs v Wolves game. A mate of mine, a Man United fan well used to crowded terraces, went to one of their semi finals in the 70's and said he spent the game absolutely terrified.
It was like the RFL staging a game at Headingley and allocating the same number of tickets for the West Terrace as for the South Stand simply to achieve parity between the two sets of fans.'"
The FA have issued a belated apology now.
The other emergency services were also at fault in various ways plus Sheffield Wednesday and the local authority. However as "lead responder" the police must bear most responsibility. Their preparation for the game and response on the day were woeful but the cover up and attempt to blacken the names of the victims is utterly unforgivable and those responsible should be locked up.