Supporters reject UEFA claims

Photo Credit: Iain Dale

West Ham supporters reject UEFA’s claims of crowd trouble in Belgium with many saying the accusation is flawed.

Away fans say there were no fights in or outside the stadium, no trouble with stewards and the match was good-humoured with all bars after the game closed.

The governing body said on Monday: “The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) has announced today the following decision for the group stage match KRC Genk vs. West Ham United FC (2:2), played on November 4 in Belgium.

“Charges against West Ham United FC: Crowd disturbances, Art. 16(2)(h) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR), throwing of objects, Art. 16(2)(b) DR. Decision: The CEDB has decided: to fine West Ham United FC €30,000 and ban the sale of tickets to its away supporters for the next one (1) UEFA competition match, for crowd disturbances, (and) to fine West Ham United FC €4,500 for throwing of objects.”

The  UEFA charges seem solely down to a couple of flares allegedly thrown by West Ham fans onto the pitch which was quickly dealt with by firemen standing next to the pitch. The use of flares in Europe is common without such draconian measures and the banning of all away fans for a small infraction seems to be a complete overreaction by UEFA.

UEFA have now set a precedent meaning they must ban any club that set off a smoke bomb or flare during any UEFA competition.

Imagine that it would just take a rival fan to sneak into a home or away end to throw a flare to get his rivals banned. They haven’t thought this thought, it is not enforceable!