Further banning orders “a reminder that we take a no tolerance approach when it comes to matchday disruption”

Another Wrexham AFC fan has been banned from football matches for their involvement in matchday disruption.

It brings the total number of Football Banning Orders (FBOs) issued to Wrexham fans since the beginning of the year to 12.

Police have detailed Matthew Duncan, 30, of Bryn Hafod, Wrexham who appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Wednesday, September 28th, was issued with a three-year FBO after going onto the playing area during an away game against Yeovil on January 22nd.

It comes a week after Andrew Calverley, 30, of Cunliffe Street, Wrexham, received a five-year FBO for releasing a flare at an away game against Chesterfield FC on August 16th.

Last month, a 16-year-old from Wrexham was also banned from matches for three years after being found guilty of a pitch incursion at the away game on January 22nd.

Dedicated Football Officer, PC Dave Evans said: “The number of FBO’s issued this year serves as a reminder that we take a no tolerance approach when it comes to matchday disruption.

“Those found to be involved in any incidents will face the consequences of their actions.

“We will also always try our best to educate rather than criminalise young people, however, disruptive incidents during matches will not be tolerated.

“The length of the bans also reflects the severe consequences that will come from causing disruption at games.

“We will continue to work closely with the club to issue FBOs where needed to ensure that matches at the Racecourse are safe and enjoyable for all.

“I would ask that anyone who becomes involved in any form of disruption at future games to consider the consequences that a football banning order would have on them – and the reputation of Wrexham AFC.”

The news follows a weekend fixture where Greater Manchester Police have confirmed 11 men aged between 18 and 30 years old were arrested following the Oldham Athletic vs Wrexham AFC game at Boundary Park.

Wrexham AFC say a post-match investigation to identify more offenders, “who will be arrested and placed before the courts, is also underway and GMP will be seeking football banning orders”.

The club added, “We would like to officially place on record our thanks to the vast majority of those who attended the game, for their tremendous support and the incredible atmosphere they helped to create. Our supporters played their part in a memorable day for the Club, and the loud, passionate and vocal support is appreciated by all the players, staff and everybody associated with Wrexham AFC.”

“The Football Club is also aware of the violence and anti-social behaviour which took place in Failsworth, four miles away from the ground.”

“We strongly condemn this hooliganism. The individuals involved do not represent our fanbase and are not welcome at our Football Club. We urge all supporters to distance themselves from such behaviour.”

Wrexham AFC CEO Fleur Robinson said: “We would like to thank the vast majority of our travelling fans for their incredible, passionate and vocal support at yesterday’s game.

“We are sorry that the actions of a very small minority have created more negative headlines, but we can only reiterate our zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviour at our matches.

“Our true supporters within Boundary Park showcased the best of our fanbase, with their support contributing to a comeback win – with players and staff all highlighting the impact this had.

“Anybody who acts to sour this reputation has no place at our Football Club, and we will continue to work with the police to ensure they face the strictest possible consequences for their unacceptable behaviour.”