The Football Association is investigating claims that Grimsby Town fans threw smoke bombs during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Altrincham.
The feisty encounter at the J. Davidson Stadium was marred by the throwing of four smoke bombs, with Greater Manchester Police confirming that one person was also arrested and cautioned for being in possession of a flare.
It’s not the first time the Lincolnshire club’s fans have been in trouble for using pyrotechnics at matches, and earlier in the season the club was warned it could face official FA action if there were any repeat offences.
A spokesperson for the FA has now confirmed that the referee’s match report from Saturday included details of four smoke bombs thrown from the Grimsby end.
Both clubs have been asked for their observations by the FA, which is expecting them to report back in the next few days.
Nick Dale, stadium manager at Blundell Park, said the club was investigating the incident and said there would be a “criminal investigation”.
The Mariners’ boss Paul Hurst described anyone using smoke bombs as “not real fans… It spoilt things a little bit, and it certainly didn’t help us”.
Under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc) Act 1985, it’s illegal for anyone to be in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match. Fans have received prison sentences in the past simply for carrying a smoke bomb.
Meanwhile, Alty TV spoke to the Robins’ assistant manager, Neil Tolson, after a priceless late goal from Scott Leather earned the hosts a point.
