Board apologise for Burnley protests

  • by Staff Writer
  • Tuesday, 22nd January 2019

West Ham United's Board have been forced to issue an apology for the crowd disturbances that marred last March's 3-0 defeat against Burnley in Stratford.

It was revealed on Tuesday that following a six-month investigation, the Football Association had fined the club £100,000 as a result of the anti-Board pitch invasions that occurred during the second half of the match.

And following that particular revelation, the Board have issued a statement apologising for the disturbances whilst maintaining that the club had "no control over matchday security operations" at that particular time.

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"Following the conclusion of the FA inquiry, we would like to reaffirm our sincere apologies for the scenes witnessed at our home game against Burnley almost a year ago," began the statement as published on the club's website.

"The club has done everything within its power to address the issues that occurred that day, despite having no control over matchday security operations - a point which is accepted and reflected in the FA’s findings.

"In line with our zero-tolerance approach, immediate action was taken against the perpetrators, resulting in 23 banning orders being issued. There is no place for behaviour like that at our club."

Some of the fans banned for life as a result of the demonstration included disenchanted long-term season ticker holders, some of whom had been following the club for more than 50 years.

Yet at no point in their statement do West Ham's Board accept any responsibility for the protests - protests which were specifically directed at the club's two co-owners and vice chairman.

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"The FA acknowledged the unique set of circumstances under which we operate," continued the Board's statement.

"The club is ultimately held responsible for matchday security despite the fact that LS185, the stadium operator hold the safety certificate, and therefore along with stadium landlord E20, control matchday operations.

"Since the events in March last year, the club has worked with its landlord and operator to ensure issues must be acknowledged transparently and the criticism from the FA is dealt with promptly.

"Nineteen recommended changes have been made, of which 18 have been completed and the last one, which requires building works, is ongoing. This, together with a number of significant changes in the matchday operation, have resulted in no further serious incidents in the stadium.

"The club has made it clear for some time we would like to have greater control over our matchdays. We have the experience, know-how and a track record of success to oversee matchday operations.

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"It is now a matter of public record that our relationship with E20 and LS185 has improved and we are committed to working closely with all necessary agencies and authorities to ensure that safety and security measures are implemented to the highest standards.

"The safety and security of everyone inside our stadium is our absolute priority."

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