Edinburgh football match sees 'over 60 youngsters damage stand' with new rules in place
An Edinburgh football club has introduced new rules, after "over 60 youngsters damaged the stand and toilets" at a home match.
The Spartans FC had an "unsavoury atmosphere" at their game against Livingston on September 7. They say a group made up of "Livingston followers and other teams" caused issues.
Police and their stewards were on handle to prevent more trouble unfolding. The club has now decided that anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at future games.
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Fans welcomed the move, adding that it was the "correct decision".
Taking to Facebook, the club issued an official statement. They said: "At our home game against Livingston last Saturday, a group of 60 plus youngsters attended before proceeding to cause damage to the stand and toilets as well as creating an unsavoury atmosphere.
"The group was a blend of youngsters who followed Livingston and other teams. We had four police officers and 10 professional stewards on duty who, along with out safety team of Paul, Thomas and Kenny, managed to prevent more serious trouble unfolding.
"Last season we had a Spartans group of young people who initially brought some brilliant support and energy at our games however, frustratingly, a small number of them then caused trouble inside and outside Ainslie Park.
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"This small number were therefor banned from attending games at Ainslie Park from April last season. With the support of our Youth Workers, the behaviour of the group has improved and have once again provided great support to the team on match days.
"We want to create a great family atmosphere inside Ainslie Park. We have therefore decided that, starting from this Saturday's game v Forfar Athletic, youngsters under the age of 16, unless they are Spartans Season Ticket holders, will only be allowed into Ainslie Park when accompanied by an adult.
"We are determined that everyone across the Spartans family (and away supporters) can come to Ainslie Park and enjoy the atmosphere whilst watching our brilliant team on the pitch."
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Fans supported the decision, and praised the club for their handling of the situation. One commented: "Minority spoiling it for the majority, nipped in the bud - well done."
Another added: "Well done Spartans for dealing with this so well.
"Need to educate our young people to respect what is on offer."
A third posted: "Well done to the safety team, stewards and police for keeping a lid on things and keeping other spectators safe."
Police Scotland has been approached for comment.