Barnsley Football Club and midfielder Stephen Dawson have apologised for ugly scenes at the end of Saturday’s 5-0 thumping at Huddersfield.
Following the final whistle a small group of players including Dawson, 28, went towards the travelling supporters to show their appreciation but were met by a volley of abuse from the clearly disgruntled Red Army.
Dawson then appeared to move towards the group of fans and had to be restrained by team-mates Brek Shea and Peter Ramage.
Today the club released the following statement:
Barnsley Football Club would like to apologise to its supporters for incidents further to the full-time whistle on Saturday at Huddersfield Town’s John Smith’s Stadium.
As a Club, we do not condone any provocative actions from any of its employees and would like to further apologise for any offence caused.
Stephen Dawson has apologised unreservedly for his actions and will be making a substantial donation to Barnsley Hospice as way of an apology.
Whilst Dawson himself added:
“Firstly I would like to apologise for my actions on Saturday. My emotions were high and I shouldn’t have reacted the way I did.
"I’m really disappointed with what was said to me but I need to be professional enough to take that. The fans have paid an awful lot of money to come and see us and to lose five-nil, I can understand their frustrations and disappointment.
There has also been suggestions that USA international Shea raised his middle finger to the fans after the game too after they turned their anger on him for his lacklustre performances since joining the club on loan from Stoke.
The club added:
In relation to an alleged incident concerning Brek Shea: the matter is currently under investigation and a further statement will be made upon Brek’s return from international duty.
Having the backing of our supporters at Barnsley Football Club is of paramount importance, especially as we head into the final months of our current campaign. Supporters are the lifeblood of the Club and are the one constant throughout.
Once again the Club would like to apologise unreservedly for any offence caused and assure supporters such actions will not be repeated.
Barnsley Football Club would like to thank its fans for their continued support and assure everyone that appropriate action will be taken where necessary.