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EFL issue threat to fans and clubs over recent crowd trouble at matches

EFL issue a threat to fans and clubs over the recent crowd trouble at matches which has left a number of individuals injured.

It comes as Luton boss Nathan Jones described the Huddersfield fans as an ‘absolute disgrace’ after he, his team and fans were goaded while Billy Sharp was headbutted to the ground at Nottingham Forest v Sheffield United.

Pitch invasions, flares, smoke bombs and fighting have all taken place in recent weeks with police making arrests and stewards having to eject fans from stadiums.

EFL statement: Swindon Town - News - EFL Official Website

EFL STATEMENT:

Unfortunately, at recent end-of season and Play-Off semi-final fixtures we have witnessed a number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play.

These are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities and the EFL condemns in the strongest possible terms the reckless actions of individuals who have brought the game into disrepute with this unacceptable behaviour. The League is working closely with the Police and Clubs, offering its full support to the ongoing investigations. 

Supporters are reminded that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time and could result in a Club ban and criminal record. More importantly it puts the safety of players, coaches, managers and match officials at risk. It is vital that those playing the game can do so safe in the knowledge that they will not be subjected to violent, threatening or anti-social behaviour going forward.

Many people have already lost the privilege of watching their team via club bans this season and further punitive action will follow for those who continue to disregard ground regulations and break the law at football matches.  

We recognise that this lawlessness is being conducted by a small minority of individuals and that the majority of people attending matches are a credit to their club.  However, it is not acceptable for supporters to enter the field of play at any time given the EFL’s objective is to ensure our matches remain a safe and welcoming one for all. Therefore, over the summer we will consider what further measures are now at our disposal, including the potential use of capacity reductions or other similar mitigations. 

Fans are also advised that the use of pyrotechnic devices inside a football stadium is a criminal offence that will potentially lead to police action, prosecution, and a ban from football. 

Pyrotechnics and flares can burn at up to 2,500°C and can cause significant injuries to carriers and fellow spectators. We have also seen many incidents that have resulted in people experiencing burns, breathing difficulties, distress, and discomfort.

Whilst the issue of pitch incursions and the use of pyrotechnic devices are primarily matters that fall within the remit of the Police and Football Association, the EFL continues to work closely and collaboratively with all the relevant parties to address the broader issue of anti-social behaviour. 

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As the EFL issue threat to fans and clubs over recent crowd trouble at matches, fans had their say…

@ForestDave1:
Most pyro at football is flares
These are not 2500 degrees 🙄

@63xBigger: Maybe not but you wouldn’t know that when you bought it/threw it. The smoke is also not very pleasant especially if you have breathing issues.

@Matt_Walker96: Maybe actually start punishing clubs for it?

@gompstomp78: I was at @htafc on Friday in the away end and the stewarding and policing both before and after were a disgrace.

@TrevorSTFC: A flare is different to a smoke canister. I suggest the FA banning All Liverpool fans considering they had at least 3 of the flares you’re talking about at Wembley last week. Please know your devices before commenting on them.

@mark_l04: Whilst head butting people and violence is obviously never ok, why are smoke bombs illegal? They don’t burn anywhere near 2500 degrees, create amazing atmospheres like we see in other countries and we can take into consideration creating designated areas where they’re allowed.

@iampav: Regulations aside and at the risk of being called an old codger, I’m really not a fan of the surge in pitch invasions and particularly the number of flares now becoming commonplace. Some of these are being thrown onto the pitch during play.

@brettSteelblade: Bring in a rule where any pitch invasion results in match being forfeited, a points deduction and playing behind closed doors for a amount of time. It would soon stop

@LutonTownExile: Minus 30 to everyone. That should do it.

@NiallLCFC: The first bit fair enough, but telling fans to not bring pyros in is not & never will work! Long live the no pyro no party brigade!

@Cricket_Things: It’s been the same for years and nothing serious is ever done about it. The usual ‘don’t do that’ statement reworded each year. Unfortunately it’s going to take a very serious injury or death from someone being trampled for the authorities to enforce it. Shame on you EFL

@Ste15375723Mark: Actions speak louder than words. Unfortunately both clubs and fans are responsible for their actions. I shall be interested to see what action the #EFL take .

@pgoomusic: Bring back policemen on horses with truncheons

@__domknight: The lot of you pack it in back there or I’m turning these playoffs around

@JamesB101: Would also be a massive improvement with a reform of how the police and stewards treat normal fans if it is just a minority.

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