Portsmouth fear FA reprisals after 'criminal offences' committed in Fratton Park fixture with Southampton
The Blues had previously been fined £50,000 following a pitch invasion in April 2024
Pompey fear their handling of the south-coast derby could warrant strong punishment by the Football Association.
It was honours even in the first Fratton Park league encounter with Southampton for more than 14 years, with Sunday’s fixture ending in an entertaining 1-1 draw.
However, a number of ‘criminal offences’ inside the ground could have serious ramifications, including the possibility of a fine or points deduction.
A statement released on the club’s website this evening, revealed a ball boy needed medical attention, while a member of staff suffered burns, after a pyrotechnic device was thrown from the stands in the second half.
In another second-half incident, a supporter was arrested after running onto the pitch following Southampton taking the lead in the 57th minute.
In addition, two further arrests have been made in connection with incidents during the match.
Pompey had previously been warned of their future conduct and were fined £50,000 following a pitch invasion in April 2024 after securing the League One title against Barnsley.
And, according to the club statement, ‘any further breaches leave the club at risk of further penalties – which may not be limited to just financial sanctions’.
The club are continuing to review CCTV footage connected with various incidents and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
The statement said: ‘Portsmouth Football Club would like to thank supporters who attended Sunday’s south coast derby at Fratton Park and created such a passionate and vibrant atmosphere to spur on their team.
‘The vast majority of those present enjoyed the intense and fervent local rivalry and the fans were outstanding.
‘However, there were unfortunately a number in attendance who committed criminal offences and now face consequences both for themselves and, potentially, for the football club as well.
‘Disappointingly, these offences included supporters encroaching onto the pitch, with one individual having already been charged and bailed to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court in March. Two further arrests have also been made.
‘There were also several incidents of missiles and pyrotechnic devices irresponsibly being thrown from the stands onto the pitch – a criminal act and one which endangers safety.
‘Most distressingly, one of these devices loudly exploded, leaving one of our young ball retrievers requiring medical treatment, as well as a member of staff suffering from burns.
‘A Regulatory Commission of The Football Association previously fined Portsmouth FC for breach of FA Rule E21. This rule mandates clubs ‘to ensure that its supporters and anyone associated with the team behaves in an orderly matter, prohibiting violent, threatening, abusive, indecent or provocative conduct, including pitch encroachment and throwing missiles’.
‘The FA also warned the club as to its future conduct, meaning any further breaches leave the club at risk of further penalties – which may not be limited to just financial sanctions.
‘We will not tolerate any future such behaviour and any spectator(s) identified as having encroached onto the pitch or having thrown missiles, either on Sunday or at any future match, will be subject to a significant club sanction, as well as a potential criminal investigation and a football banning order.
‘Portsmouth FC remain proud and grateful for the amazing support we receive both home and away. We remain totally committed to delivering a safe environment at Fratton Park for everyone. Players, match officials, staff and all supporters should feel entitled to this assurance, whatever the circumstances.’
Anyone with information are encouraged to email the club in confidence at [email protected]
In addition, Hampshire Police are also investigating the pyrotechnic incident and can be contacted on 101, quoting the crime reference number 44260041733.