Football club in south Essex issues warning to supporters over 'vile' behaviour
Canvey Island FC has issued a warning over fears it the club could face "serious repercussions" following abusive supporter behaviour at a recent match.
The Essex FA highlighted the "vile and abusive" language used during the Essex Senior Cup match against Dagenham and Redbridge.
The club was unable to identify the culprits at the time but has now received evidence from match officials and a home supporter identifying one of the individuals involved.
A spokesperson for the club said: "This individual has been spoken to by a Canvey Club official and told of complaints against our club and the possible repercussions.
"Whilst we can identify one individual, we know there are others involved.
"This small group of individuals are dragging down the good name of Canvey Island FC and putting the future of the club at risk."
The identified supporter was also reportedly removed from an away game at Bowers and Pitsea for inappropriate behaviour earlier in the season.
The club has said it will be vigilant at future home games and anyone caught committing similar offences will be expelled from the ground and banned from attending future matches.
The club is considering closing the stand between the terrace and the away dugout when Canvey are attacking the terrace end as a measure to protect line officials and the club's reputation.
The spokesperson added: "Obviously this would have a detrimental effect on a number of true Canvey supporters and would be a last resort.
"However, we must not be put in a position where we would have to play games behind closed doors and incur future large fines.
"This could make the club financially unviable."
The club has appealed to genuine supporters to help eliminate this unacceptable behaviour.
The spokesperson concluded: "We would appreciate the help of the true supporters of the club to help stamp out this unacceptable behaviour."
The statement from the club's board of directors comes as a warning to supporters, emphasising that the club's future is at stake if such incidents continue.
