Sheffield Wednesday have revealed that their fans are under investigation once again after poor behaviour in the club's recent clash with Leeds United at Hillsborough.
The match, which took place on Friday night, saw missiles thrown towards Illan Meslier during the second half. When Willy Gnonto scored to make it 2-0 on the night, Sky Sports' cameras picked up bottles being thrown at the Leeds goalkeeper while Leeds's supporters celebrated with their players at the opposite end.
Fortunately, Meslier wasn't hurt in the incident but the behaviour has sparked an investigation into those involved. It means the club is now under two separate fan-related investigations with the other relating to missiles thrown at an official during a recent clash with Plymouth Argyle. They are also awaiting the verdict from the FA on accusations of racial abuse towards Coventry's Kasey Palmer.
All three of the aforementioned incidents have occurred at Hillsborough which has sparked fears that Wednesday could be forced to play some matches behind closed doors due to repeat offences.
Sheffield Wednesday reveal ‘extreme disappointment'
In a statement published on Tuesday morning, Sheffield Wednesday went in hard on their supporters. It read:
“The Owls are extremely disappointed to report that once again, we are the subject of a further FA investigation, this time following Friday night’s Championship fixture against Leeds United.
“Missiles were launched from the Kop area of the stadium on to the pitch in breach of EFL Ground Regulations and the law. The club is at risk of FA sanctions for this and previous incidents regrettably seen at Hillsborough this season.
“Officials are currently studying CCTV footage from Friday’s game and anyone identified to have taken part in such unacceptable behaviour will be heavily sanctioned by the club whilst also facing police prosecution. We repeat in the strongest tone that we have a zero tolerance policy in respect of ground regulation and/or law breaches at Hillsborough.
“FA investigations result in unnecessary costs, including the potential of significant financial sanctions that have to be absorbed by the club. Whilst it is acknowledged that only a minority of supporters choose to act in such an appalling manner, we ask the overwhelming majority and law-abiding members of the Sheffield Wednesday family to help weed out these individuals and uphold the good name of our club.”