AN Aston Villa fan assaulted an Ewood Park steward when he celebrated a Rovers goal during a match between the teams last month.

Blackburn magistrates heard John Tierney took exception to the steward’s “obvious delight” at Bradley Dack’s opening goal in the 76th minute of the game.

There was a verbal dispute before Tierney pushed the steward twice and then kicked him on the leg.

The incident, which was also captured on CCTV, was witnessed by a police officer who stepped in and arrested the fan.

That meant Tierney then missed his team’s 93rd minute equaliser - a free-kick scored by midfielder Conor Hourihane.

The match, which was screened live on Sky Sports, finished 1-1.

Tierney, 30, of Newhall Farm Close, Sutton Coldfield, pleaded guilty to assaulting Martyn Howson.

He was fined £330 with £85 costs and an £85 victim surcharge by Blackburn magistrates and made subject to a football banning order for three years.

Peter King, defending, said his client accepted pushing the steward but was not aware he had kicked him during the incident.

“He took exception when the steward celebrated a Rovers goal and told him he was meant to be impartial,” said Mr King.

“That led to a verbal exchange which then lead to pushing and shoving.”

A Rovers spokesman said: “We fully support Lancashire Police in this prosecution.

“This was an incident which could have had far more serious consequences for the steward involved.

“And this appears to have been recognised in the decision made by the court.”