'Multiple sanctions' issued to fans involved in Dundalk v Drogheda row
Trouble broke out at Oriel Park following the Lilywhites' 4-2 victory over their neighbours in the League of Ireland Premier Division
Drogheda United have issued a number of bans varying in length to supporters who were involved in an altercation with Dundalk fans following last week's Louth Derby at Oriel Park.
Trouble broke out in front of 'The Shed' following the Lilywhites' 4-2 victory over their neighbours in the League of Ireland Premier Division, a result which leaves Drogheda five points adrift of Dundalk at the bottom of the table. The sides clash again at Weavers Park in Drogheda in the FAI Cup this Friday.
Ahead of that fixture, Drogheda chairperson Joanna Byrne said the club have issued "varying degrees of sanctions, ranging from three indefinite long-term bans to several rest of season and multiple match bans".
READ MORE: Three arrests made after clash between supporters following Dundalk v Drogheda United
READ MORE:Ugly scenes as fans clash after Louth derby between Dundalk and Drogheda United
She said: "Firstly all involved in Drogheda United apologise to everyone in attendance at Friday's match for witnessing and having to endure the unsavoury behaviour at the end. I accept there were multiple fans of ours involved and having successfully identified them through the outpouring of footage sent to us from fans, tv crews and sports journalists, I have tonight met with those involved and issued varying degrees of sanctions, ranging from three indefinite long-term bans to several rest of season and multiple match bans.
"As a club we are strong in our condemnation of this violent behaviour and resolute in our stance that there is no place for it at Drogheda United FC.
"Last night we had a successful meeting with Dundalk FC, FAI and An Garda Siochana and we are all united in eradicating this behaviour from our Clubs and committed to ensuring there is no repeat of these events. The vast majority of the fanbase in both clubs is exceptional and has unfortunately been let down by a small minority. We have a great relationship with Dundalk FC and both clubs are focused on building on the great momentum around the League and our Clubs at present and always striving to improve the family-friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
"I want to reassure both sets of fans attending our fixture on Friday night that together with our friends in Dundalk FC we have an increased operations plan in place - supported by our Security Team and An Garda Siochana and we are confident that we can bring back the safe, enjoyable atmosphere for all and return the focus back to the football. Louth Derby's are historically great events, the pivotal fixtures for both clubs, and we just need to bring back that passion and enjoyment this Friday and move forward together."
The Disciplinary Committee of the FAI meet tomorrow to discuss what happened last Friday and they could make a ruling of some sort, but as it stands the Cup game this Friday is going ahead with fans.
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