Derry City announces ‘zero tolerance’ policy as stadium bans issued to supporters

Following a 2-1 victory over Sligo Rovers last Friday night at Ryan McBride Stadium, Derry City FC has issued immediate stadium bans to a number of supporters identified for their roles in crowd disturbances.

The incidents involved brief exchanges between rival supporters at the start of the second half, with some individuals managing to enter the playing area before being apprehended by stewards.

The club has introduced several strict measures to ensure future safety at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

In a statement they said: "Derry City Football Club can confirm that following a thorough investigation into an incident at Friday night’s home game with Sligo Rovers, a number of supporters have been identified and will be issued with immediate stadium bans.

"Going forward, the club will employ a ‘zero tolerance’ policy to pitch incursions.

"Any supporters who breach that policy will be ejected from the ground and will face an automatic 12-game ban from attending home matches.

"Furthermore, anyone arriving at the turnstiles wearing a mask or with a partial face covering will be denied access to the stadium. That also extends to anyone bringing alcohol into the ground.

"We would also like to make it very clear that abuse of stewards, staff and club volunteers will absolutely not be tolerated.

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"The Board of Directors wish to acknowledge the efforts of the vast majority of fans who created a wonderful atmpsphere throughout Friday’s game; spoiled only by the actions of a small faction.

"We are particularly pleased that supporters respected the policy on flares, however the actions of a small minority could easily have escalated into a much more difficult situation.

"Derry City FC is intent on creating an environment whereby all supporters can attend matches safely and we won’t allow the actions of a few troublemakers to ruin that."