Glentoran Football Club has come under investigation from the Irish Football Association for the alleged behaviour of a small group of supporters at recent games.
Please note that the following behaviours are not and will not be acceptable under any circumstances, either at the Bet McLean Oval or at away grounds:
- Use of flares or other form of pyrotechnics in any area of the stadium
- Supporter encroachment onto any area of play before, during or after a match. This is both a breach of ground regulations and a criminal offence.
- Any sort of unacceptable, political or sectarian singing in any part of the stadium
The safety and well-being of everyone inside the stadium – players, supporters and staff – is of paramount importance, as is the need to safeguard the club against any potential penalties such as heavy fines or ground closures imposed for breaches of the regulations. The club has received fines in the past for the use of flares by supporters and for supporter encroachment and will not accept any form of behaviour that risks further penalties.
Glentoran is a family-friendly and fully inclusive club, at the heart of our community. Everyone should be made to feel welcome when visiting the Bet McLean Oval. The club will always take whatever steps are necessary to protect that reputation and the positive supporter experience.
A supporter recently identified using a flare has been reported to the PSNI who will be taking appropriate action.
The growing Glentoran support has been outstanding all season, both home and away , as it has got strongly and vocally behind the team. Those indulging in unacceptable behaviour are a selfish but tiny minority. The club will be investigating the alleged behaviour and can guarantee our loyal supporter base it will take the strongest possible action – including stadium bans - if there is any repetition.
Please continue to support the team safely and responsibly. Those who choose to disregard the rules and behave in an unacceptable manner are not welcome inside the Oval.