Raith appeal over Firhill incidents

STATEMENT: Fans’ actions at cup tie leave club exposed to possible sanctions

Raith Rovers have issued an appeal for information relating to “wilful damage” done to seats at Firhill as well as the release of a smoke canister.

The incidents occurred during Friday’s Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup semifinal against Partick Thistle, which Rovers won 2-1.

Raith labelled the behaviour of some of their travelling fans as “unacceptable” and warned that it may leave them exposed to “financial and other sanctions”.

The statement read: “After an outstanding performance and a great match day experience at Partick Thistle on Friday night, we are now looking forward to our cup final against Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

“The atmosphere at Firhill was fantastic and down, in no small part, to the contribution our supporters made.

“Unfortunately, some went beyond what could be excused as exuberance and we have had information passed to us this morning about wilful damage to seating at the front of the Jackie Husband Stand.

“In addition, the staff at Partick Thistle are in the process of trying to clean a significant area in the concourse soiled by the residue of the smoke canister which was activated at halftime.”

“The dangers of activating smoke canisters in public areas has been highlighted previously. However, doing so in a confined area increases risk especially to the elderly and those with breathing problems.

“The damage to the seats is, quite simply, vandalism and is unacceptable.

“The club are currently reviewing stadium CCTV and other sources in an effort to identify those involved.

“Apart from the criminal element of these activities, the club will deliver significant bans to anyone involved in these type of activities.

“Such behaviour not only adversely affects the club’s reputation but can expose us to financial and other sanctions which we can ill afford.

“We have visited this matter before and hope not to do so again…this type of behaviour is unwelcome and in no way evidences support of Raith Rovers FC.

“Anyone who has information relating to those responsible for the damage and/or activation of the smoke canisters should contact Raith Rovers as soon as possible.

“Going forward, a travelling Raith Rovers support will be dealt with in a very different way now and that is disappointing.”