Doncaster Rovers launch an investigation after a referee was hit by an object after the Port Vale game on the 4th of January.
The incident took place after the League Two fixture at the Eco-Power Stadium with referee Jeremy Simpson was reportedly hit by an item thrown from above the tunnel as players and officials were leaving the pitch.
The club has condemned the actions and aims to identify and punish the supporter responsible. Additionally, there are allegations of another serious incident outside the tunnel area which is also under investigation.
A statement from the club’s head of safety
Read more ⬇️https://t.co/HpYwpv4080
🔴 #drfc ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/ELjPTLmpEz
— Doncaster Rovers FC (@drfc_official) January 22, 2025
CLUB STATEMENT:
Earlier this month, a number of incidents took place as opposition players and officials left the pitch following the game against Port Vale.
The referee was struck by an item thrown from above the tunnel. This incident was included in his report and, as a result, the club is subject to an investigation by the Football Association.
The incident was captured on camera and a club investigation has taken place to identify the individual responsible.
While we understand this is an emotive sport, such behaviour is never justifiable. We treat such incidents with the utmost seriousness and individual responsible will be dealt with accordingly, both by the club and South Yorkshire Police.
In addition to the occurrence with the match officials, allegations were made of another serious incident outside the tunnel area which the club continues to investigate.
Due to these incidents, the seating area around the tunnel will see an increase in visible stewarding, beginning with the game against Harrogate Town on January 25.
Anyone found to be acting in an offensive manner or breaching regulations will be ejected from the stadium and receive an immediate club ban.
Doncaster release statement on alleged incidents as Port Vale players and officials left the pitch
The club remains subject to a Football Association charge following the pitch encroachment and subsequent disorder which took place during the match against Barrow last April. Repeated incidents will not be looked upon kindly by the authorities and increase the risk of severe sanctions against the club.
It is our duty to ensure the safety of all those leaving the field of play at the end of each match. Together we must take responsibility to ensure the efforts of those on the pitch are not ruined by the actions of a tiny minority off it.
We remind supporters of our Safe Text number where incidents of concern can be reported. Messages are monitored continually throughout events at the stadium. If you see anything that you feel needs attention, text details to 07395058061 and we will respond immediately.
Love football, protect the game.
This comes after Doncaster released a statement at the time of the incident: “The club wishes to condemn in the strictest of terms alleged incidents which took place as opposition players and officials left the pitch following the game against Port Vale.
“We have received reports of incidents involving home supporters as individuals entered the tunnel after the final whistle and promise a full investigation into those events.
“The club will not tolerate abuse towards players, staff and officials and will take action against those we find to be guilty of such behaviour.”
Twitter users gave their reaction as Doncaster launch an investigation after the referee was hit by an object after the Port Vale game…
@Alandrfc142: When is something going to be done about the ever declining standard of referees at this level, and above?
@HDavisDRFC: The stewarding at our home games is completely backwards. Crewe going on the pitch is fine, every local team bringing pyros in is fine but as soon as one of our fans stands on the stairs that’s where we draw the line.
@18Dapper: We all represent Doncaster Rovers. Certain members of our fan base have potentially cost the club a chunk of money or even worse, points. It’s not hard to conduct yourself in a civilised manner, irrespective of the refs performance. Shouldn’t need more stewards etc. #DRFC
@pendoozey: For the sake of balance here since so far everything thinks is ok (what’s wrong with you?!): Absolutely right to issue this statement. Doesn’t matter whether they were terrible or not, throwing a coin at an official is a ridiculous thing to do and rightly needs to followed up.
@MattDRFCshirts: Throwing shit onto the pitch/at people is thick as fuck. I wonder if holding match officials accountable for obvious mistakes and poor performances would be a start at stamping out abusive behaviour. A dialogue needs to be created or something.
@EdPVFC: How are these lot still moaning about the ref all because they got outclassed by a bigger and better team embarrassing 🤣
@CameronMooresey: I can not believe fully grown adults are condoning assaulting a referee… We’ve had refs this season that have been poor in our favour, and not in our favour. It’s the same for the other 23 teams
@ChrisNeedh72549: Shall we do your job for you next time away fans get on the pitch?
@LowerLeagueLook: Seems silly. You’re on 43 points and 6th you’re definitely safe.
@Rupee92: Tbf you can’t go round lobbing shit at ref😂 we’ve had some terrible ones but it’s same for everyone at this level. The standard is poor and that’s worked both for and against us this season. #drfc
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