Cliftonville Football Club condemns Windsor Park disorder

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Cliftonville Football Club has condemned the violent disorder which happened before a football match in south Belfast on Friday night.

Nine police officers were injured and a child was hit by a bottle, before the Irish Cup semi-final at Windsor Park, where Cliftonville lost to Dungannon Swifts.

A 19-year-old man was later charged with riotous behaviour, doing a provocative act, possession of fireworks/flares at a regulated match, indecent behaviour and attempted criminal damage.

In a statement the clubs Management Committee said: "it was widely reported that some youths had been involved in throwing objects and fireworks at police at Broadway."

"All such incidents of violence are to be condemned and should form no part of any sporting event, at any time or any place," it said.

"It was also apparent that, regrettably, some amongst our fanbase brought fireworks and other pyrotechnics into the stadium."

The club said it opposes the practice and will continue to work with security officials to address the issue.

It added it wants to drive home the message, particularly to younger fans, of the dangers of using fireworks.

"Cliftonville FC are proud to be supported by fans of all traditions and ages, with elderly fans in attendance on the night alongside young families and school groups," it said.

"Those recklessly releasing fireworks – both inside and outside of the stadium – put people at risk and must realise the real dangers involved in such activities."

'Societal issue'​


Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) South Belfast District Commander, Supt Fiona Dornan said at the time that the majority of football fans attending the match behaved in a "peaceful" manner but a number of people "chose to engage disorderly behaviour and provocative conduct".

The club added that it is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all supporters and will continue to work closely with he PSNI, relevant authorities and supporters groups to "ensure that matchdays reflect the values of our Club".

In the statement they said are "proud of the passion and support shown by the vast majority of our fanbase".

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