Livingston have released a statement condemning a worrying increase in ‘anti-social behaviour’ among young fans at the club’s matches.
David Martindale’s side were relegated from the top tier of Scottish football last season and currently sit third in the Championship.
The West Lothian outfit have raised concerns over anti-social behaviour outside the ground after home games, warning that fans could face a ban if this continues.
A statement from CEO Dave Black was issued on Thursday.
It read: “Over recent weeks, we’ve seen a real increase in our younger support, both home and away, which has undoubtedly added to the atmosphere and positive noise generated in support of the team.
"There’s a been a real, noticeable lift in that support, particularly to the North End of the main stand at home games and at recent away matches at Partick Thistle and Falkirk, the travelling numbers have been brilliant – with lots of young faces in amongst that. The coaching staff, players and all at the club have been grateful for that increased support and it’s been great to hear that added noise.
"We had well documented issues in the opening home game or two with pyrotechnics but following discussions with some in the group and a call across club channels for that to be calmed down, we appreciate the fact that’s been taken on board and the in-ground behaviour has been much better since.
Read more:
-
How Scottish universities can help save Scottish youth football
-
Cristiano Ronaldo 'chased' for half a mile down Glasgow street
"However, there seems to have now been a shift to what can only be described as anti-social behaviour outside the ground after games now and it’s something that needs to be stopped.
"We want the Home of the Set Fare Arena to be somewhere that supporters of both teams can come to, enjoy the game and feel safe. At no point should anyone be feeling threatened or uncomfortable due to the actions of others.
"We’re well aware that these issues are something that appear to be creeping in around the country, not just at our games, but our interest is here and it’s not something we wish to see continue. This behaviour costs the club money as we now need to increase stewarding numbers to prevent these issues which comes at a cost – something we really don’t want for a number of reasons.
Over recent weeks, we’ve seen a real increase in our younger support, both home and away, which has undoubtedly added to the atmosphere and positive noise generated in support of the team. There’s a been a real, noticeable lift in that support, particularly to the North End of… pic.twitter.com/PMAw1Uih8Z
— Livingston Football Club (@LiviFCOfficial) October 17, 2024
"We also don’t want to have a police presence having to stand over supporters in the ground – this doesn’t have a good look for anyone involved and we’re sure Police Scotland would rather have those resources used elsewhere.
"We ask those involved in these post-match interactions to stop and remind yourselves that as supporters of our club, you also become ambassadors for our reputation and your behaviour should be in the same manner that you’d like to be greeted at other clubs.
"We really don’t want to have to start banning our own, young supporters from attending games or bringing in blanket rules across the board which will impact others who do come to the football and behave in a respectable manner, so we ask you not to force our hand on this and simply come to the game, continue your brilliant support inside the ground and work with us to help cheer the team on to what we hope to be a successful and memorable season."
