Charges and cases, across all areas, have increased significantly in comparison to the same point in the 22/23 season. Between the start of the current season and January, we have seen 47 discrimination cases, up from 24, whilst referee threat or contact has increased from 18 to 43. Shockingly, non-playing participant sanctions have risen from 70 to 147, whilst sin bins are up from 443 last January to 617.

 

More worryingly, we have seen such severe behaviour that games are being forced to be abandoned, with the number of abandoned games up from 25 to 53, with this figure constantly climbing.

 

Abusive behaviour within football towards anyone is totally unacceptable and we want to make sure football is a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.  Everyone bears a collective responsibility to set a good example and help provide a positive environment in which everyone can enjoy the game.