SFA in missile-throwing warning

SFA in missile-throwing warning

Mikoliunas handed extended ban
Clubs have escaped punishment after objects were thrown on to pitches during recent Celtic v Rangers and Hearts v Rangers matches.
But the Scottish FA has written to all the nation's clubs, warning them about "the growing trend of coin-throwing".

An SFA statement said: "While regretting the incidents, the committee acknowledged the action being taken to put in place security at the grounds.

"No sanctions on the clubs will therefore be applied."

The SFA disciplinary committee warned that clubs with a history of spectator misbehaviour could face sanctions in the future.

But it was happy that the clubs involved in the recent incidents were working with the police to identify the culprits. The committee is appealing to clubs to do as much as possible to root these problems out of the game

SFA spokesman

Rangers defender Fernando Ricksen was cut by a cigarette lighter during the Old Firm derby at Celtic Park on 20 February.

Hearts supporters were also reported for objects thrown at match officials after the stormy 2-1 defeat by Rangers on 2 March.

The fourth official at Tynecastle was also spat on at the Edinburgh ground.

"At each match, coins and other small objects were thrown at either a player or the match officials," said the statement.

"In the latter match, the fourth official was also spat upon.

"The committee has become very concerned at the number of reports on spectator incidents this season.

"In particular, the incidence of coin throwing has been a recurring feature.

"While the committee acknowledges the security arrangements put in place and the pre-planning carried out by clubs to ensure that matches are played in an orderly and safe manner, nonetheless incidents at matches do occur.

"The committee has requested clubs to take all possible measures to convey to supporters the unacceptability and senselessness of behaviour such as coin throwing, spitting on match officials and coming on to the field of play.

"Club programmes, websites and local newspapers can all be used to appeal to the good sense of supporters, who themselves can assist in identifying the culprits.

"In essence, the committee is appealing to clubs to do as much as possible to root these problems out of the game.

"However, any club which develops a history of spectator incidents, either at its ground or at away matches through the misconduct of its supporters, will be at risk of having a sanction imposed."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/h/heart_of_midlothian/4355905.stm