A FOOTBALL fan who crossed the advertising hoardings at Vitality Stadium celebrating his side’s late goal said the worst thing was “my son’s face, total embarrassment and anger.”

Marc O’Neill, from Sheffield, appeared at Poole Magistrates’ court yesterday after being arrested following Billy Sharp’s late equalising goal in the match between Bournemouth and Sheffield United on August 10.

Sharp cancelled out a Chris Mepham opener in Sheffield United’s first game back in the Premier League after more than a decade.

The defendant, 53, appeared in the dock and pleaded guilty to going onto an area adjacent to the playing area without lawful authority or excuse.

O’Neill, who represented himself, was fined £140, and made to pay £32 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.

He told the court: “Total apology. It was over-enthusiasm. We haven’t been in the division for 13 years.

“The worst thing was my son’s face. Total embarrassment and anger. I’m sorry for wasting your time.”

Another Sheffield United fan also appeared in the dock for the same offence.

Gavin Hirst, from Rotherham, crossed the advertising hoardings following the late goal and was subsequently arrested. He also pleaded guilty.

Mr Martin, mitigating for the 42-year-old defendant, told the court that the goal scorer approached the fans and Hirst knew he could not enter the pitch.

“(Hirst) stopped just over the side of the barrier. He was overcome with excitement and emotion.

“He has had to spend money to come down here, spend two nights in a hotel and take time off work.”

Hirst was fined £250, made to pay £32 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.

The two defendants have 14 days to pay.