Newport County say unacceptable supporter behaviour is damaging the club's reputation and proving financially costly. The club have rounded on a "small minority of fans" over a series of alleged incidents this season, including racist abuse, pitch invasions, fighting and setting off fireworks. It comes in the wake of alleged homophobic chants at Rodney Parade on Saturday.
Newport's FA Cup first-round win against Walsall was halted for five minutes during the second half by referee Robert Massey-Ellis. The official spoke to the managers and captains of both teams and appeared to gesture towards the home crowd close to the dugouts. The club might now face charges from both the Football Association (FA) or police, as homophobic and discriminatory chants breach FA rules and are also classed as a hate crime.
"Such behaviour has no place in football and is entirely contrary to the values of Newport County AFC, the wider game and our local community," the club stated. Etete's brace helps Newport past Walsall in FA Cup Listen to the latest Newport County news and views "A number of these matters have been referred to the appropriate football and regulatory authorities for investigation and review. "Regardless of the outcome of those processes, the reported incidents have already caused reputational damage to the football club and detracted from the positive support provided by the vast majority of Newport County supporters.
"The impact extends beyond reputational concerns. The club has now been required to commit additional resources to stewarding, security, crowd management measures, investigations and preventative initiatives designed to maintain a safe environment for players, officials, staff and supporters. "Every pound spent responding to supporter misconduct is a pound that cannot be invested elsewhere in football operations, supporter facilities and the club's future development." Newport also pointed to the possibility of disciplinary action and financial sanctions from the FA.
"Continued incidents of this nature may also affect relationships with governing bodies, sponsors, community partners and other stakeholders," said the Exiles. Newport also pledged to work with the FA, the English Football League (EFL), Gwent Police and other relevant bodies to deal with the issues. The club's statement added: "Newport County AFC remains committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
"We ask every supporter to play their part in protecting the reputation of the football club and ensuring that Rodney Parade remains a venue where everyone can enjoy football. "The actions of a small minority do not reflect the values of Newport County AFC or the conduct of the overwhelming majority of our supporters. Nevertheless, the club will continue to take a robust and uncompromising approach towards any behaviour that brings the club into disrepute or places others at risk."
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