30 Imps Fans Face Backlash for Discriminatory Chants During Chelsea Match
Recent events at Lincoln City have sparked discussions on discriminatory chanting and anti-social behaviour during football matches. This issue was the focal point of a recent meeting of the Fans Advisory Board, just before a match against Exeter City.
Discriminatory Chanting Identified
During the fixture against Chelsea, a public announcement warned fans against discriminatory behaviour. It has now been reported that up to 30 Imps fans have been identified for their involvement in such incidents, and appropriate actions are being planned.
- Approximately 30 individuals are under investigation.
- Incidents are classified as hate crimes.
- Evidence collected through CCTV will support ongoing police investigations.
Club Response and Apologies
During the advisory meeting, representatives from Chelsea Pride and impacted Lincoln families shared their distress caused by these chants. The club’s immediate response was commended, emphasizing its commitment to eliminating discrimination.
The Fans Advisory Board will send a formal apology to Chelsea on behalf of the Lincoln City supporters. Education and awareness campaigns are planned to support this initiative.
Addressing Anti-Social Behaviour
The discussion also expanded to include wider issues of anti-social behaviour, such as the use of smoke bombs and flares. A Lincoln City-supporting family shared their negative experiences related to smoke during matches, shedding light on the human consequences of such actions.
- Fans are encouraged to support the movement against pyrotechnics.
- Education initiatives for younger supporters are underway.
Enhanced Matchday Safety Measures
Club officials confirmed that new safety measures are being implemented at Sincil Bank to enhance matchday experiences. These include:
- New barriers in the north-west corner.
- Clearer signage around the stadium.
- Increased stewarding for crowd management.
Despite the complexities involved, the Fans Advisory Board unanimously prioritised safety improvements. Concerns regarding inconsistent stewarding at away matches were also acknowledged and will be addressed with the relevant authorities.
Overall, the commitment from Lincoln City and the Fans Advisory Board to tackle discriminatory chanting and enhance safety reflects a proactive approach toward improving the matchday experience for all supporters.
