Atlanta United issued a stern statement Thursday following Orlando City’s decision to ban supporters groups of the Five Stripes from the next three matches between the clubs at the Lions’ stadium. The decision followed alleged inappropriate behavior during a game May 13.
“We disagree with the unsubstantiated and premature position that the Orlando City SC organization has taken regarding our visiting fans and have asked for an extension to further investigate alleged supporter involvement. We feel this action is inconsistent with League policy and practice and as such we will be calling for League review.
“We continue to assist Orlando City SC with their follow-up on incidents of Atlanta United fan misconduct and believe in accountability for these behaviors, as well as for the misconduct displayed by OCSC fans at the conclusion of the May 13 match. “
This was Orlando City’s original statement:
“Orlando City SC has suspended the organized supporter groups' privileges of Atlanta United FC for the next three matches between the clubs at Orlando City Stadium. This is a result of unaddressed misconduct from members of the traveling Atlanta United supporter groups following the May 13 match at Orlando City Stadium.
“On May 15, Orlando City SC shared video footage and images with Atlanta United FC of five of its fans throwing objects during the match. Atlanta United failed to respond with the names of the offenders or ask for an extension within the appropriate window of time.
“Orlando City SC will revoke the organized supporter groups' privileges granted to all clubs in Major League Soccer, which include purchasing seats in a designated supporters' section with escorts to the match, entering Orlando City Stadium before general admission gates open and bringing flags or banners into the stadium.
“Orlando City SC expects all fans, regardless of affiliation, to exhibit appropriate and safe conduct at Orlando City Stadium.”
Orlando City suspended its own supporters groups from four matches between the clubs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium last season after three of the team's supporters were arrested after they allegedly damaged bleachers at Bobby Dodd Stadium during a game Aug. 1, 2017.
About the Author
