The conduct of a ‘small number’ of York City fans is causing concern, says the organisation which runs the LNER Community Stadium.
“Misconduct by a small number of supporters spoils the enjoyment of matches for other fans but can also leave the club liable to action from the National League and the Football Association, which can include financial penalties and even point deductions,” the York Stadium Management Company (SMC) said in a statement.
Run by York City chairman Jason McGill, the SMC said most “fans who back their team with passion, but also in the appropriate manner”.
But it says they will not hesitate to inform police about anti-social behaviour by fans.
The SMC issued a public reminder that:
- it is a criminal offence to enter the playing field at any time during a match.
- the use of pyrotechnics within a football stadium is strictly prohibited and ‘can seriously damage people’s health’
- racial and homophobic abuse is a criminal offence.
A protest by fans at the home game against Chorley, where tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch stopping play, saw one fan take to the field, before being chased back to the stand by stewards.
Seats damaged
The SMC also urged fans to stop damaging seats, saying “the club has had to replace a number of seats at a substantial cost”.
Its statement goes on: “The SMC has and continues to work closely with the police and will share any information it has available in relation to any anti-social behaviour by supporters.
“This can lead to not only further action by the police. Such action may include bans from travel and or stadiums and in serious cases, criminal proceedings.
“We again reiterate that this is a general reminder following isolated incidents involving a small number of supporters.
“We respect the incredible backing given to your club by the rest of the York City fan base and look forward to this continuing.”