Scunthorpe United issue statement after pitch invasion
It was part of a protest against the club's ownership during yesterday's match
Last updated 15th Jan 2023
Scunthorpe United's Chief Operating Officer has issued a statement this morning in response to the pitch invasion during yesterday's match against Woking.
The protest was made as fans make vocal their thoughts on the ownership and the future of the club, following reports earlier this week that the club had been served with a winding-up petition, throwing their future into doubt.
It's after reports of an unpaid tax bill.
During yesterday's match, supporters tell us they invaded the pitch in the 72nd minute - to mark the number of years The Iron were a football league side.
However, the message from the club comes with a stark warning for followers of the club which 'no doubt' has repercussions - and could lead to a fine, or even a points reduction.
In a statement, published on their website, Chief Operating Officer Lee Turnbull said: "We have listened to and heard the voices of our supporters. The frustrations of the takeover are shared by everyone connected to Scunthorpe United.
"Yesterday's pitch encroachment was totally unacceptable. Not only is it a criminal offence to go onto the pitch, but it visibly effected the team.
"Michael Nelson, his staff and the players were thoroughly disappointed by the actions of those people that disrupted the game.
"I believe also that the majority of our supporters yesterday were also dismayed by their own supporters attempting to and getting onto the pitch.
"I’m all for freedom of speech and the backing you have given the players from the terrace and stands this season has been excellent, but yesterday was unacceptable. It was hugely disappointing and damaging to all of us who work for Scunthorpe United.
"No doubt there will be repercussions from the governing bodies which potentially could affect finances or even more severe, a points reduction. Equally, the police will also be knocking on a few doors of those pitch invaders which will probably result in arrests being made.
"Let’s hope the actions of a few do not deter any of the interested parties involved in negotiations at this late stage."
Yesterday's events
During the match, supporters vented their frustration about the club's current situation and particularly against owner Peter Swann who's currently looking to sell.
Late in the game a number of fans went onto the pitch.
There are reports flares were also lit.
It was feared it may have to abandoned with Woking leading 1 nil at the time.
However order was restored and the game continued with the visitors scoring a second to win 2 nil.
Fan says "we want our club back"
This season has proved to be a very difficult one for the Iron.
Not only was the club put up for sale but also on the pitch things didn't quite go to plan.
Scunthorpe are currently bottom of the National League having lost their football league status at the end of last season.
On social media many fans vented their frustration.
One said "the town can't afford to lose the club."
Another said "we want our club back" whilst a third added he was "heartbroken" at what was happening.
Supporters desperately hope a buyer can be found
We spoke to several who raised their concerns, one said "our days are numbered, people have had enough".
Another said "once I saw our supporters on the pitch I was proud of our fanbase and I had to join them in unity."
Meanwhile there are unconfirmed reports there might be a new consortium who may be interested in buying the club.
If the club does get sold whoever takes over will face a very difficult challenges both on and off the pitch.
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