Club’s apology after mix of fans felt ‘intimidating’
SOUTHPORT FC has pledged to improve security after reports of disruption when away fans mixed with home fans at the Merseyrail Community Stadium on Saturday.
Supporters reported feeling ‘scared’ and ‘intimidated’ when Stockport County fans were able to enter the Popular end and Jack Carr Stand, which are both reserved for home supporters, during the second half.
Fans were able to move between the home and away ends when a gate was opened after the match had begun but the club said this was not planned and has promised to carry out a full investigation.
With a large number of away fans anticipated for the match, believed to be around 1,000, Merseyside Police was present before and during the match, while the club also employed an increased number of stewards.
Despite the disturbance, there were no arrests involving supporters before, during or after the match.
A spokesman for the club said: “The fixture was segregated but the club are aware that a designated gate was opened during the game.
‘‘This was not part of the operational plan and a thorough investigation is currently taking place to find out the reason why and to ensure this doesn’t happen again as the safety y of all those in the ground d is of paramount impor- tance to Southport FC.
“As the atmosphere grew within the ground, those overseeing the game constantly monitored and reviewed the situation. That is why the bars were closed 15 minutes after the second half begun.
“Southport Football Club would like to apologise to those who attended and felt threatened by the behaviour from a small minority of Stockport County supporters.”
Southport lost the match 1-0 and next play at home against Ashton United on Saturday, August 25.