Most of the orders banning young fans from York City’s ground have been lifted in time for today’s crucial match.
As YorkMix reported on Wednesday, there was widespread dismay among supporters that the bans had been sanctioned following exuberant celebrations at the 6 April game against Altrincham.
A number of people spilled from the South Stand stand and fell onto the advertising hoarding, knocking it over.
It came after a 96th minute winner which kept City at the top of the National League.
City co-owners Julie-Anne and Matt Uggla expressed their own concerns.
Today Julie-Anne and Matt issued an update. They said club management went to a meeting with North Yorkshire Police and the Stadium Management Company on Monday.
It was recommended to issue 22 banning orders for going over the concrete safety wall until all individuals had been spoken to by the police.
The co-owners said: “These individuals were already identified by both NYP and the SMC via the usual protocol that takes place after any incidents occur. Under the recommendations and strong advice of both parties, the club sent the banning orders.
“We can confirm that the majority of sanctions for those under the age of 18 have now been lifted, with them being spoken to directly by NYP and becoming a part of the Operation Hat Trick initiative, a designated football behaviour programme.
“As you can imagine, it’s put extra eyes on our supporters this week, but now is the time to rally together and finish the season on a huge high, starting with a massive lift from every single member of the crowd at the LNER today.”
One parent posted on a York City forum about their experience. “Junior’s ban lifted and downgraded to an official warning under some act or other.
“He went over the wall to celebrate, so no qualms. That’s what it should’ve been in the first place.
“Police officer really good. Was the proper football liaison officer so took time to chat and listen to our concerns as well.”
The lifting of the bans means those fans will be able to join a sell-out crowd for today’s last home game of the season.
York City play Yeovil Town and if results go their way City could be crowned National League champions and achieve promotion today.
If not, it all comes down to the clash on the final day of the season at promotion rivals Rochdale.
