Hull City issue three-year ban and new warning after Sheffield United problems cause concerns
Hull City say they will hand out three-year bans to fans responsible for setting off flares before and during the Tigers' fantastic 3-0 win at Sheffield United on Friday evening.
City's most impressive performance of the season was marred by ugly scenes both in the concourse and in the Bramall Lane stands, which saw some of the 2,300 visiting contingent require medical attention.
It's understood some asthmatic supporters were among those impacted when a flare was set off in the tight confines of the concourse before kick-off, while another was set off during the game.
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While some feel flares add to the atmosphere, they can cause significant harm and alarm, especially when released inside stadium areas. Ultimately, bringing one into a stadium remains illegal in this country, something the club is keen to highlight.
City released a strongly-worded statement on Monday evening, saying three fans will be banned for three years after they were identified.
The events at Bramall Lane follow on from similar events two years ago, and three years ago, a small minority of fans caused extensive damage to the visiting toilets at Bramall Lane, landing City with a hefty bill, and the club have warned strong sanctions could follow for the club, if such behaviour continues, having already been warned by the FA.
"Hull City condemn the unacceptable behaviour of a small number of individuals who caused disruption and distress to fellow supporters at Sheffield United," the Tigers' statement read.
"Several City fans required medical attention after pyrotechnics were set off in both the stand and concourse in the away end at Bramall Lane on Friday evening.
"Three individuals involved have subsequently been identified and will be given club bans, meaning they will not be able to attend Hull City matches for three years.
"Being in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match or attempting to bring a pyrotechnic device into a football stadium is a criminal offence and, as such, all three also face police enquiries. The club will continue to cooperate with Sheffield United and both Humberside and South Yorkshire Police to identify and prosecute further offenders.
"The irresponsible actions of a minority of fans intent on causing disorder are endangering and ruining the matchday experience for other supporters.
"These individuals are tarnishing the reputation of Hull City and putting the club at risk of severe sanctions, having already received a formal warning from the FA regarding supporter conduct, as previously communicated.
"Anti-social behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated, and we urge all fans to support the team passionately, responsibly and considerately, as most supporters do every week. Anyone who is deemed to have put the safety of fellow supporters at risk will be investigated and sanctioned accordingly.
"The Hull City Official Supporters’ Club, Hull City Supporters’ Trust, Hull City Disabled Supporters’ Association, Hull City Southern Supporters’ Club, Senior Tigers and Humberside Police endorse this stance and have pledged to support our efforts to eradicate anti-social behaviour.
"Considering recent events, the terms and conditions for both stadium entry and away travel are to be reviewed. Supporters are reminded that incidents of anti-social or discriminatory behaviour on any matchday, home or away, can be reported by texting HULL, followed by details of your issue, to 60066 or by speaking to a steward."
The impact of Friday's events was discussed in length during the latest episode of the 1904 Club podcast, which you can listen to here.