Drogheda hand down three indefinite bans to supporters after brawl at Dundalk – but no permanent bans issued

But the club have stopped short of handing down permanent bans for those involved, following a 40-man melee at Oriel Park last week after a section of the Drogheda support stormed the pitch seconds after the full-time whistle.

Following the Lilywhites 4-2 victory over their Louth rivals, a group of Drogheda supporters let their club down and ran across the field towards the home section as scuffles broke out with Gardaí needing to intervene. Clips of the ugly scenes soon went viral on social media.

Drogheda released a statement the following morning condemning the violent behaviour, and have tonight issued an update to supporters to confirm that a number of individuals had been identified through video footage and issued with bans, but no permanent bans were announced.

The clubs will meet again in FAI Cup action at Weaver’s Park this Friday night, with Drogheda chairperson Joanna Byrne confirming that an “increased operations” plan is now in place to ensure there is no further trouble after last week’s horrendous scenes.

“Firstly, all involved at Drogheda United apologise to everyone in attendance at Friday’s match for witnessing the unsavoury behaviour at the end,” said Byrne this evening.

“I accept there were multiple fans of ours involved having successfully identified them through the outpouring of footage sent to us from fans, tv crews and sports journalists. I have met with those involved and issued varying degrees of sanctions, ranging from three indefinite long-term bans to several rest of season and multiple match bans.

“As a club we are strong in our condemnation of this violent behaviour and resolute in our stance that there is no place for it at Drogheda United FC.

“Last night we had a successful meeting with Dundalk FC, FAI and An Garda Siochana and we are all united in eradicating this behaviour from our Clubs and committed to ensuring there is no repeat of these events.

“The vast majority of the fanbase at both clubs is exceptional and has unfortunately been let down by a small minority. We have a great relationship with Dundalk FC and both clubs are focused on building on the great momentum around the League and our Clubs at present and are always striving to improve the family-friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.

“I want to reassure both sets of fans attending our fixture on Friday night that, together with our friends in Dundalk FC, we have an increased operations plan in place – supported by our security team and An Garda Siochana – and we are confident we can bring back the safe, enjoyable atmosphere for all and return the focus back to the football.

“Louth derbies are historically great events, the pivotal fixture for both clubs, and we just need to bring back that passion and enjoyment this Friday and move forward together.”

Following the incident, on Saturday the league confirmed they would be reviewing the incident and will announce any possible sanctions in due course.

“The League of Ireland condemns in the strongest possible terms the incidents involving supporters following the conclusion of last night’s fixture between Dundalk and Drogheda United,” it said.

“We are working closely with An Garda Síochána, Drogheda United and Dundalk while reviewing the Match Delegate’s report on the fixture and will communicate any further information relating to disciplinary action following the conclusion of this process.”