Drogheda United have expressed “their absolute disgust and embarrassment at the despicable behaviour” of a small section of their support, during Saturday night’s Airtricity League match with Sligo Rovers, while also promising to issue lifetime bans to supporters found to have been involved in the trouble.
A statement, published on the club’s official website, criticised the actions of a number of its supporters who were involved in scenes of trouble during the game. It went on to express the “absolute disgust” of the Drogheda United board, players and coaching staff at the trouble.
Extratime.ie reported that the trouble began when Ross Gaynor, a former Drogheda player, reacted to abuse from the stands following his assist for Sligo’s equaliser in the 67th minute. A pitch incursion followed which resulted in a steward being injured and Gaynor was then sent off by referee Anthoy Buttimer.
The statement from the club in full:
“Drogheda United Chairman Jim Agnew, Manager Mick Cooke, the board of management and players wish to express their absolute disgust and embarrassment at the despicable behaviour of a number of so-called Drogheda United fans at the Sligo Rovers v Drogheda United match in Sligo last night.
"The club wishes to express its sincere apologies to its own decent supporters who attended the game and who were shocked and appalled by the behaviour. We also apologise to Sligo Rovers officials, manager, players and supporters for the utter disregard that these individuals displayed in The Showgrounds. Drogheda United enjoys a very good relationship with Sligo Rovers, and our supporters and Sligo’s supporters have always been warmly welcomed in each other’s grounds. It is deeply upsetting that a small minority of hooligans should seek to besmirch the good name of Drogheda United in a matter of minutes.
"We will be working closely with the FAI, with Sligo Rovers and with other clubs in the League to ensure that the individuals involved are dealt with in the strongest possible manner. In the case of some of these individuals, the club will be issuing lifetime bans.”
Image ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy
