Saints keen to boost backing

ST J O H N S TO N E are making an attempt to increase vocal backing for the team in the East Stand, the main area of the ground where Saints fans gather.

In a statement, the club said: “In recent seasons, the team received great vo c a l b a ck i n g from a sizeable group of younger fans who occupied t he north end of t he East Stand.

“The colourful displays, enthusiasm shown and atmosphere created were a great credit to the people in that section and dialogue between these fans and the club ensured everyone knew what was expected of them.

“Sadly, a minority of that group used the purpose of ‘supporting’ the club at away games as a chance to display behaviour which was unacceptable and tarnished the good name of St Johnstone FC.

“Despite effor ts to manage those individuals and encourage selfpolicing, ongoing disorder at some away games and around McDiarmid Park and elsewhere in Perth, meant the club could no longer justify the promotion of the group.

“So the decision to close the area they occupied at the ground was taken.

“Ahead of the 2018-19 campaign, Saints are looking to re-engage with the supporters who formed that group and any others who would like to help the re-creation of an active section at the north end of the East Stand.”

Club fans liaison officer Beverley Mayer said: “I am keen to get things back on track and manage a return to the sort of backing we previously enjoyed.

“I have been speaking with contacts from t he group and encourag e anyone interested in helping with this to contact me.”

St Johnstone are hoping to up the noise levels at McDiarmid Park next season.