Brackley Town board condemns supporter behaviour at home match against Chester

Brackley Town's board has issued a statement condemning what it called unacceptable behaviour by some supporters at the home match against Chester on Saturday.

The club said the conduct was "completely unacceptable and demonstrated a complete lack of respect for those around them". It cited "vile and obscene language and abuse directed at officials and opposition players", which it said has no place at St James Park and will not be tolerated.

The board described Brackley Town as a community club where families with children can come to enjoy a match and feel comfortable and safe. It accepted that emotions can run high at competitive sporting events, but said language was used that would not be acceptable in a supermarket, on the high street, in a pub or at work.

The club warned that such behaviour ruins the experience for fellow supporters and brings the club into disrepute. It added that it could have serious consequences from the football authorities, including disciplinary and financial sanctions.

Those identified following Saturday's match face serious sanctions, with disciplinary steps already under way, and the board insisted it will not hesitate to act against anyone who creates an intimidating atmosphere or threatens officials, staff, volunteers or fellow supporters.

The statement also said the overwhelming majority of supporters are "fantastic", and asked everyone to continue supporting the team "passionately but respectfully".