Fans reminded to stay off the pitch

DERBY County have issued a reminder for fans to be on their best behaviour as the Rams look to return to the Championship against Carlisle United today (12.30pm kick-off ).

Paul Warne’s side will secure promotion with a point against the Cumbrians in what is expected to be a carnival atmosphere at Pride Park Stadium. The home ends have all sold out for what is the last game of the League One campaign with anticipation high that the Rams will have cause for celebration.

But the club has sent a strong message in respect of pitch invasions which are illegal as part of the Love Football Protect the Game initiative which is designed to remind fans to stay on the right side of the law.

The club said: “Derby County will conclude their 2023-24 Sky Bet League One campaign against Carlisle United at Pride Park Stadium on Saturday 27th April (12.30pm kickoff) and a positive result will see the side secure automatic promotion to the Championship.

“At a crucial stage of the campaign, it goes without saying that everyone associated with the club are hugely thankful for the support received from the stands this season, both in large numbers at Pride Park Stadium and on the road right across the country.

“The noise and atmosphere created has played a fundamental part in the team competing for promotion back to the second tier and head coach Paul Warne, his backroom staff and all the players are hugely appreciative of the fantastic support they receive.

“At this important stage of the season the club must remind all supporters, in the interests of safety for everyone inside Pride Park Stadium, that the pitch is for managers, coaching staff, players and match officials, while the stands are there for supporters to play their part and back the team.

“At the end of last season, some clubs unfortunately witnessed unsavoury and unwelcome scenes with a small minority of people entering the field of play whilst other fans took to the pitch in celebratory mood.

“Pitch incursions are dangerous and anyone who does encroach onto the playing surface will face strong sanctions that could include a ban from attending matches at Pride Park Stadium and across the country and police action.

“It is a criminal offence to enter the pitch and the real-life consequences for these actions have been felt by many, with some fans receiving criminal records which can impact employment, education prospects and international travel.

“It is not only yourself that can be disciplined. There could also be an impact on your family members and Derby County itself.

“The club wishes to urge supporters to keep the pitch for players and the stand for spectators and avoid any unnecessary disruption at such a crucial point of the season. Love Football, Protect the Game.”