Willem II has disapproved of the pitch invasion by supporters on Saturday after the victory in the semi-finals of the play-offs. The Tilburg club wants to identify and fine the pitch invaders.
Willem II defeated FC Dordrecht in the semi-final of the play-offs for promotion/relegation via penalties. The clubs were tied at 4-4 after two matches. After the won penalty series, hundreds of fans entered the field to celebrate.
“We understand the relief and euphoria after a long period without victory. But the battle is not yet over. Two crucial matches still await,” Willem II states in a statement on Sunday, referring to the matches with Telstar in the final of the play-offs.
“We strongly disapprove of the pitch invasion. Anyone who enters the field hinders our players, staff, and fellow supporters from celebrating the moment together. And also hinders our guests from Dordrecht from thanking their audience. Some reactions towards our opponent were downright unsportsmanlike and do not suit Willem II.”
Willem II repeats that a fine of 1,000 euros applies to entering the field. “The club will try to identify people who have entered the field and fine them for this behavior. Because even an outburst of joy is no reason to enter the field. Especially when we still have everything to play for.”
Willem II also Dislikes Fireworks
Willem II also wants to punish the people who set off fireworks during the match. “Like the supporters who enter the field, supporters who set off fireworks are identified and fined in accordance with KNVB guidelines.”
It is the second pitch invasion in the play-offs in a short time. On Friday evening, things got out of hand at the match between Telstar and FC Den Bosch. Supporters of both clubs fought each other on the field in Velsen-Zuid. There were two injuries.
Willem II and Telstar will determine in the final which club will play in the Eredivisie next year. The first leg is scheduled for Thursday in Velsen-Zuid. The return will follow next week Sunday in Tilburg.