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Folkestone Invicta to increase stewarding for Ryman League Division 1 South play-off final v Merstham after crowd trouble in semi v Whyteleafe

Folkestone Invicta are to step up security and stewarding for the club's play-off final against Merstham at the Fullicks Stadium on Saturday.

It follows crowd trouble during Tuesday night's extra time 2-1 semi-final victory over Whyteleafe.

Visiting fans took to their club's online fan forum as well as Invicta's own forum to complain about "intimidating and violent behaviour" from a group of home fans.

Folkestone celebrate an Ian Draycott (second from right) goal. Picture: Gary Browne
Folkestone celebrate an Ian Draycott (second from right) goal. Picture: Gary Browne

Comments were left on both forums with one fan posting on Invicta's webiste: "I spent the first segment of the second half talking to a steward and in doing so missed the build up to Whyteleafe's equalising goal.

"What happened afterwards was absolutely ridiculous, with beer being thrown and ridiculous levels of verbal abuse being aimed at the Whyteleafe support."

They said they wished not to tarnish every Invicta fan with the same brush and noted it was an isolated group intent on antagonising opposition fans.

Other fans went on to criticise the way the incident was dealt with by stewards.

Folkestone Invicta's Fullicks Stadium Picture: Don Linkin
Folkestone Invicta's Fullicks Stadium Picture: Don Linkin

However, the club has responded confirming they will bring in experienced stewards who who usually work controlling Dover Athletic's home games in the Conference.

Club chairman Jim Pellatt told KentOnline: "Although we exceeded the guidelines in the number of stewards on Tuesday evening and they were properly licensed, we have decided to have eight stewards on Saturday.

"They also steward Conference side Dover Athletic FC at each home game including against Crystal Palace and Bristol Rovers, and are very experienced at handling football crowds.

"We are also implementing a total alcohol ban inside the ground, and re-enforcing searches on the turnstiles.

"We have also spoken to the Police to ensure our arrangements meet guidelines.

"We are doing everything within our power to ensure everyone enjoys the game and is safe."

A Kent Police spokesman confirmed no incidents from the match had been reported to them.

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