Three banned from matches after Muratti disorder

Three people from Guernsey have been banned from football matches in Jersey and Guernsey after disorder at this year's men's Muratti Vase final.

The States of Jersey Police said they "have been identified in connection with offences including fighting and the throwing of flares onto the pitch" at the match at Jersey's Springfield Stadium in May where Guernsey beat Jersey 2-1.

A police statement said "the individuals identified have each been issued with notices banning them from attending future Football Association matches in both Jersey and Guernsey".

It said the three people were assisting with inquiries and criminal proceedings may follow.

The Jersey force said behaviour such as entering the field of play, throwing objects, engaging in threatening or abusive conduct, and acts of violence have no place in football or the wider community and would not be tolerated.

It said it worked in partnership with Guernsey Police, the Jersey Football Association (JFA), and the Guernsey Football Association (GFA).

Tim Pryor, JFA boss, said the ban "sends out a clear and strong message that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated at local football matches".

He said the "huge majority" of the 1,500 strong crowd "behaved well, enjoyed the occasion and supported their team in the right way".

Pryor added "a small minority crossed the line" and would not be welcome back at Springfield Stadium for Jersey matches.

Gary Roberts, GFA's chief executive, said football fans "will have been appalled at the disgraceful behaviour of the small minority involved in the incidents".

He added: "The behaviour witnessed that day has no place at these matches" and that those who cause disruption at matches are not welcome at Victoria Park in St Sampsons."

Aiden Quenault, Jersey police Acting Ch Insp for uniform operations, said: "Football is a sport that brings people together and the recent Muratti final was an enjoyable family event for the majority of those in attendance."

He said the disorder "is entirely unacceptable and won't be tolerated on or off the pitch".

His counterpart at Guernsey Police Ch Insp Adam Parry-Jones, said: "The banning orders now in place send a message that extends beyond either island individually, that the Channel Islands policing community operates as one when it comes to protecting public safety and the integrity of sport."

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