Bilston Town issue fresh statement following FA Vase tie disorder
Bilston Town has confirmed that suspensions have been put in place following disorder during their FA Vase tie with Droylsden.
Footage of the incidents at Queen Street last Saturday has circulated widely on social media, showing several individuals involved in confrontations near the touchline.
Another clip appears to show a man - believed to be a member of Droylsden’s coaching staff - punching another man to the ground before running off the pitch.
West Midlands Police were called to Queen Street following reports of people being attacked. As of yesterday, no arrests had been made.
The Football Association has also confirmed it is investigating the incidents, while Bilston Town said it was aware of the footage and conducting its own inquiry.
In a new joint-statement with Droylsden, Bilston Town said: A statement said: "Following the disorder which occurred after our game on Saturday, both clubs wish to issue the following statement.
"We do not and will never tolerate, condone or excuse disorder of any kind, either verbal or physical.
"We are fully aware of the videos circulating on social media, and full internal investigations are being conducted by both clubs.
"Immediate interim, without prejudice suspensions have been put in place in respect of those individuals known to have been involved, pending the investigation outcomes.
"We are working with the police, the FA, and each other to bring these events to a conclusion.
"At this time, no further comments will be made. Once we have resolved the matter with the relevant authorities further updates may be issued."
Bilston Town had been hoping to equal their best-ever run in the prestigious competition and secure a place in the quarter-finals, but crashed out of the FA Vase after a 2-0 defeat.
A spokesperson for the Staffordshire FA said: "We are aware of an incident at an affiliated match and the matter is being investigated in line with FA Regulations.
"To ensure the process is followed correctly, we are unable to comment further at this stage."
West Midlands Police has appealed for information as enquiries continue.
A spokesperson said on Sunday: "We’re investigating after a violent disorder at Bilston Town Football Club on Queen Street yesterday.
"We were called to reports of people being attacked at around 5pm.
"No arrests have yet been made.
"We are working to establish the full facts and will be contacting the victims to get full statements, and will be reviewing mobile phone and CCTV footage.
"Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch with us on 101, quoting 20/139817/26."
