As we approach the final home game of the 2022/23 campaign, Rotherham United would like to remind supporters that the club can and will be sanctioned for any instances of anti-social behaviour or pitch encroachment.
The football club operates a ZERO tolerance policy towards all forms of anti-social behaviour and we would like to reiterate that anyone found guilty of entering the field of play at any time will face a ban and police action.
Towards the end of the 2021/22 campaign, we saw instances of serious assaults on players and other individuals across the divisions where spectators entered the field of play illegally and whilst we understand that the guilty parties are very much in the minority, football clubs throughout the country will be doing everything in their power to ensure that there is not a repeat of such occurrences for behaviour that has absolutely no place in our game.
Whilst we remain firmly of the belief that the actions of a small group of individuals absolutely do not represent the majority of the Rotherham United fan base, or football fans as a whole, we would like to reiterate the potential consequences of anti-social behaviour.
Clubs throughout the pyramid have been contacted by the footballing authorities reminding them of the potential consequences of such actions and the correspondence included a reminder that any further incidents will result in the club being sanctioned with financial penalties or worse.
It goes without saying that as a club - and fanbase - we want to avoid facing sanctions of this nature at all costs.
The strong and collective approach adopted by clubs across the pyramid reflects how seriously we all view this issue and the severity of the risks that encompass it. The pitch must remain safe for players, managers and match officials, just as the stands should be for supporters.
Staying off the field of play this afternoon will allow the players and staff the opportunity to show their thanks to the fans for their fantastic support this season.
Once again, we would like to thank the thousands of Rotherham United supporters who represent the town and club badge in line with our core values and we look forward to seeing you for the remaining Sky Bet Championship fixtures.