Reds may face ‘strong sanctions’ for fan behaviour

BARNSLEY have warned they could face ‘strong sanctions’ due to the bad behaviour of some of their fans at matches.

Approximately 50 seats were broken at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough, where Barnsley visited last month, as well as damage to the male toilets and arrests of Reds fans for ‘other football-related offences’.

At the EFL Trophy game with Lincoln four days earlier, a steward was ‘assaulted by a drunk 14-year-old female home supporter and an away supporter was also assaulted outside the ground on Grove Street.’

Six club bans have been issued this week and the Reds are working with South Yorkshire Police while more Barnsley stewards will be at away matches.

In a statement in Tuesday’s programme, safety officer Paul Davis wrote: “If there are further incidents, the club faces the prospect of strong sanctions by the FA which could include heavier fines or potential ground closure.”

He also said: “It is with regret that a minority of our fanbase continue to misbehave at home and away matches. There have been other incidents of concern and so the club once again finds itself having to spend on extra stewarding and policing that could be spent more efficiently elsewhere.”

There is an ongoing FA investigation into sexist chanting when Bristol Rovers visited in Auust.

The statement reads: ‘Think about what you are saying and how offensive these comments are. Would you say that to your own mother, wife, girlfriend or sister? How do you think they would feel in that situation?”

Anyone who witnesses abusive behaviour is encouraged to text ALERT to 60777 with details and the row and seat number. You can also use the Kick It Out app or email reception@barnsleyfc.