Scottish football authorities have launched an investigation into crowd disorder that erupted during the Junior Cup semi-final between Johnstone Burgh and Largs Thistle held at Keanie Park on Saturday, 19 April. The match was briefly halted after clashes broke out among supporters following a late winner by the visiting Seasiders.
Video footage circulating online captured scenes of bottles and other missiles being thrown by fans, prompting players and Johnstone Burgh captain Derek Esplin to intervene in an attempt to calm the situation. Stewards were also seen grappling with some members of the crowd to restore order.
The referee mentioned the incident in his official match report, and the Scottish Junior Football Association (SJFA) has confirmed that an investigation is underway. Possible sanctions against Johnstone Burgh, such as a club fine, could result if the findings deem it necessary. The club has stated that adequate stewarding was in place during the game.
In an unprecedented move at this level of non-league football, the return leg of the tie, scheduled for Sunday, 18 May at Largs Thistle’s Barrfields, will be an all-ticket affair. The second leg is set to kick off at 2pm, with Largs currently leading the tie 1-0.
The semi-final first leg attracted a bumper crowd of approximately 2,000 spectators. According to a source at Johnstone Burgh, tensions escalated after an opposition supporter ran across the pitch to provoke some of the home fans following Largs’ goal. The source said, “The club has worked so hard over the past five years to build itself up. Unfortunately, a small number of people have caused the scenes which we saw. The vast majority of our young fans are great children.”
Following the match, Johnstone Burgh issued a statement expressing regret over the brief outbreak of disorder. They said: “The entire incident lasted less than two minutes. The referee rightly paused the game to restore order. With the goal scored late in the match, Johnstone Burgh players themselves encouraged calm to allow the match to resume swiftly and safely.” The club emphasised its zero tolerance for antisocial or aggressive behaviour from supporters and praised their security team for the “swift and professional handling” of the situation. They also confirmed that one steward was assaulted during the disturbance and vowed that individuals involved in violence or antisocial behaviour would be banned from Keanie Park immediately. “We remain committed to maintaining a safe, welcoming and respectful environment for all supporters, particularly the younger members of our community,” the statement added.
Largs Thistle also released a statement, noting that the match referee had submitted a report concerning the crowd trouble. They said they would refrain from further comment until the football authorities concluded their investigations, adding they “do not condone any form of aggression or violence towards anyone, adults or children.”
The SJFA confirmed the investigation is ongoing but did not provide further details at this stage. The outcomes of the inquiry and any resulting disciplinary measures are awaited ahead of the highly anticipated return leg next month.
Source: Noah Wire Services