The recent chaos at the Premier Sports Cup final has sparked a heated debate within the Scottish Football Association (SFA) on how to address the increasing use of pyrotechnics by hooligans at matches. Senior officials, including chief executive Ian Maxwell and president Mike Mulraney, are considering drastic measures such as stand closures and banning orders to curb this dangerous trend.
Potential Closing of Stands
Maxwell and Mulraney have emphasized the urgent need to crack down on ultras who ignite flares, smoke bombs, strobes, and rockets during games. They are advocating for the courts to issue football banning orders to these troublemakers, preventing them from entering stadiums. However, they have not ruled out the possibility of closing down stands as a last resort if the situation does not improve.
Illegal and Dangerous Behavior
The SFA officials are clear that the use of pyrotechnics is not only illegal but also poses a significant risk to players, fans, and stadium staff. The chaos caused by these incidents, including delayed kick-offs and smoke inhalation, has serious implications for everyone involved in football matches. Maxwell and Mulraney are urging for a unified effort to combat this criminal behavior.
Call for Action
Mulraney stressed the importance of utilizing existing legislation, such as football banning orders, to penalize those responsible for these acts. He emphasized that these individuals are criminals, not true fans, and must face the consequences of their actions. Both officials are calling for a collaborative approach involving the police, courts, and the football community to address this issue effectively.
In a heartfelt plea, Maxwell highlighted the need for greater awareness among fans about the illegality of pyrotechnics and the potential dangers they pose. He acknowledged the impact of organized displays but expressed concern about random incidents that are on the rise in stadiums. The implementation of stricter measures, such as electronic ticketing systems, is seen as a step towards improving security and accountability at matches.
The SFA is determined to tackle this pressing issue and ensure the safety and integrity of football events in Scotland. As the debate continues, the focus remains on enforcing existing laws and regulations to protect the sport from the disruptive actions of a few individuals.