The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Chief blows whistle after staff abused by hooligans
Chairman says’ disgraceful’ acts of minority are embarrassment to club
Dunfermline Athletic’s officials have called for an end to “unacceptable” abuse from a minority of fans towards club staff.
Chairman Ross McArthur issued a lengthy statement detailing a host of “unsavoury” incidents which have taken place over recent months involving some supporters.
He told how the club’s East End Park had been vandalised by hooligans who blocked sinks in the toilets, causing them to flood. A reception window was also kicked in.
The chief added that players’ families are being targeted after a small group of fans abused a footballer’s sister and girlfriend following the team’s clash at Firhill on Saturday.
He fears the behaviour, which has been witnessed by sponsors and representatives from the SFA and SPFL, could affect future investment in the club.
He said: “A number of events over the last couple of months, combined with earlier incidents and culminating at Firhill on Saturday, have brought this to a head – so, quite simply, enough is enough.
“The reason for this public statement is to give our loyal fan base a flavour of what has been taking place and to appeal to them for their help in bringing about an end to this very unwelcome behaviour.
“I would like, respectfully, to ask for your help to bring these people to account.
“Sadly, there has been a number of recent instances where several of our own players, the manager, the coaching staff and the directors have been routinely abused by our own supporters.
“It has also now spread to abusing our families too. The behaviour of a handful of people in the Dunfermline end at Firhill on Saturday was nothing less than disgraceful – and a huge embarrassment to the club.
“Again, I reiterate it was only a minority.”
Mr McArthur told how an abusive video sent to a player during a match was intercepted by his family, prompting concerns about his continued future at the club.
He added: “I would urge people to remember that depression and mental health problems are most prevalent within young males in this country, and clearly our club’s core staff fall within this ‘at risk’ category.
“Football is a hugely emotional game, but everyone has to think very carefully about the consequences of their actions.
“The rules relating to unacceptable conduct are very well known and understood. Anyone behaving in such a manner will be ejected from East End Park, as it will not be tolerated.
“Where the behaviour warrants it, the club will not hesitate to involve Police Scotland.”