Aberdeen sanctioned for 'serious incidents' including fan pitch invasion

Aberdeen have incurred a sanction from the Scottish Professional Football League following “two separate serious incidents” involving their supporters during their recent Premier Sports Cup quarter-final victory over Kilmarnock.

The Dons have been penalised for “a large scale organised and illegal pyrotechnics display, and a pitch incursion” at the match at Rugby Park on September 12.

Pyro was let off ahead of kick-off in the away end and again in the immediate aftermath of their dramatic penalty shootout triumph as dozens of supporters spilled on to the playing surface to celebrate.

Aberdeen have been hit with an immediate reduction of 500 tickets from their ticket allocation for the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers at Hampden October 31, with the club required to cover the cost of these tickets as part of the sanction.

A statement from the Dons read: “The club have consistently reminded supporters that the use of pyrotechnics and other unacceptable behaviour can lead to sanctions which directly impact fellow fans.

“This latest decision demonstrates the significant consequences such incidents can have, not only for the club, but for supporters who simply want to follow and back the team.

“The SPFL has made it clear that further breaches will likely result in even more severe sanctions in future, including additional reductions to ticket allocations and further financial penalties.

“Supporters should also be aware that anyone found in possession of, or using, a pyrotechnic device, or entering the field of play without authorisation, may face criminal proceedings and a potential criminal record, receive a football banning order and be prohibited from attending matches at Pittodrie and away venues.”