Chester FC condemn behaviour of ‘very small minority’ of Blues fans following defeat against Southport

Chester FC have condemned the behaviour of a ‘very small minority’ of Blues supporters following yesterday’s match against Southport and vowed to deal with any identified to have entered the pitch or acted inappropriately.

On the pitch, Chester suffered a 3-0 defeat at Haig Avenue thanks to goals from Bradley Bauress and a David Morgan double.

But off it, a statement from Chester’s Board of Directors said that a ‘very small minority’ of travelling fans let themselves and the club down with their behaviour.

The club has moved to remind fans that entering the field of play can have consequences for both club through fines and an individual through potential banning orders.

Chester have also vowed to deal appropriately with anyone found to have acted in a ‘hostile, threatening or violent’ manner.

The statement follows Chester FC defender Steven Howson claiming on social media that his partner was ‘punched in the arm’ following the conclusion of yesterday’s match, as well as suggestions of verbal abuse against the families of both the players and management team.

The statement said: “Without doubt, 2018 has shown the positive impact that our supporters can have.

“Whilst everyone connected was disappointed with yesterday’s result away at Southport, a very small minority of the travelling supporters let both themselves and Chester Football Club down with their behaviour – in particular during the second half.

“Entering the field of play during the game at any time is unacceptable behaviour and may see the Club charged and even fined by the Football Association.

“Such behaviour not only has consequences for Chester FC, but also the individual through potential banning orders enforced through the courts.

“As such, we remind supporters to stay off the field of play at all times.

“In addition to this, Chester Football Club are also aware of a number of issues raised through social media regarding the behaviour of some of our supporters towards fellow fans and the families of the players and management team.

“Chester Football Club condemns and will not tolerate such behaviour. Anyone who is identified to have acted in a way that would be considered hostile, threatening or violent will be dealt with as appropriate to their actions.

“Nevertheless, these messages should not distract from the superb away support that was received yesterday. The vast majority have been, and will remain a credit to this Community Club.”