Bohs’ ban hits Drogs in pocket
DROGHEDA UNITED expect to be €9,000 out of pocket after Bohemians fans were slapped with a stadium ban.
The FAI dished out the punishment last night after Bohs defender Cian Byrne was hit by a flare that was thrown by his own supporters during Friday’s win away to St Pat’s.
Bohs – who intend identifying and banning those directly responsible – have also been heavily fined but confirmed they will not be appealing either sanction.
Fans from both clubs lit flares and unfurled anti-fai banners early in the second half of the sold-out Richmond Park clash, in what appeared to be a planned protest.
But there were a number of flares thrown onto the pitch from behind the goal where the travelling Bohs fans were located.
Centre-back Byrne was hit by one of them and he sustained a burn to his arm that required treatment at the side of the pitch.
Yesterday, the FAI’S independent disciplinary committee held an emergency meeting, and imposed the ban on Bohs for their away fixture in Drogheda next Monday.
Last night, Drogheda United had to suspend its online ticket sale for the game in order to prevent Bohs fans gaining admission to the home section.
Up to 600 Gypsies could have made the trip to Co Louth next week and Drogheda believe the ban will cost them up to €9,000 in lost earnings.
In a statement, Bohemians said: “The club respects the outcome of the hearing and recognises the seriousness of the incidents at Friday’s game away to St Patrick’s Athletic.
“We will not be appealing the decision. We regret that the reckless actions of a small minority have led to the collective punishment of our entire fanbase.
“As indicated previously, the club is committed to banning those individuals responsible and to ensuring that nothing like this ever happens again.”