Rovers to use zero tolerance
SHAMROCK Rovers have revealed a young supporter had a lucky escape from a flare that was lit near him in Tallaght Stadium’s during their opening night draw with Dundalk.
The Hoops also reported two burn injuries that happened during their President’s Cup win over St Patrick’s Athletic last month.
And the four-in-a-row champions have warned that any fan identified using pyrotechnics will be removed from the ground and given an indefinite ban from home and away games.
In a statement to supporters, Rovers said: “As all supporters will be aware from stadium regulations and previous club announcements, the use of pyrotechnics (flares, fireworks, smoke bombs) is prohibited at Tallaght Stadium.
“The club was contacted after the recent Dundalk game, where a young male supporter in the South Stand had to move quickly to avoid injury after flares were lit by surrounding fans.
“He had to leave the area and had his Rovers top destroyed by sparks that burned right through.
“The club also had reports of two burn injuries from flares at the President’s Cup game. It is only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt.
“From this weekend’s Drogheda game onwards, our security team will be actively seeking to identify any fans using pyro. If, and when, identified, they will be ejected on the night, and/or identified afterwards using CCTV, and issued an immediate indefinite ban from all SRFC home and away games.
“This is the final warning on this issue before the club acts. We seek the support of all fan groups in making Tallaght Stadium a safe space for all spectators to enjoy football.”
Meanwhile, St Patrick’s Athletic have also warned of bans for fans whose actions endanger others and cost the club in fines.