A FOOTBALL fan who confronted Blackburn Rovers supporters during a match at Ewood Park has escaped a banning order after a court heard it was the first time he had been in trouble.

Stephen Hartley told Blackburn magistrates he was a single parent to his son and knew he should be setting an example.

"It was stupid and childish and I can't make any excuses," said Hartley. "I could have caused a riot and put people in danger. I'm not defending what I did but I don't think two minutes of madness should affect me for years to come."

Hartley, 34, of Mossley Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour. He was fined £100 with £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge.

Announcing their decision not to make a banning order the chairman of the magistrates said Hartley seemed genuinely remorseful.

"It was a minor, short lived offence which we accept was out of character," said the Chairman.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said at the end of the game Hartley was seen to climb over a metal fence separating the two sets of fans.

"He made his way towards the Blackburn fans shouting abuse and raising his arms with his fists clenched," said Mrs Yates.

Five football fans were arrested for public order offences connected to the match.

Police launched a wide-scale operation ahead of the fixture at Ewood Park.

Firearm officers were present outside the stadium.

A police spokesman said the majority of fans had been well behaved.

Blackburn Rovers came from 2-0 down to draw the match 2-2 thanks to goals from Charlie Mulgrew and Adam Armstrong.

The game was attended by 13,665 supporters, including 2,294 Oldham Athletic fans.