EFL consider options after pitch invasions at Huddersfield Town and Sheffield United games

The EFL have released a statement responding to the pitch invasions at the City Ground and the John Smith’s Stadium following Sheffield United and Huddersfield Town’s play-off semi-finals, as well as fans bringing flares and pyrotechnics into grounds – threatening ‘the potential use of capacity reductions or other similar mitigations’.

Blades forward Billy Sharp required stitches after being assaulted by a pitch invader following Nottingham Forest’s penalty shootout victory on Tuesday evening, while an elderly Luton Town fan was reportedly injured by a coin thrown after the Terriers beat Luton Town 1-0 on Monday evening. Both games’ post-match celebrations also saw home fans bring flares emitting coloured smoke onto the pitch.

Those two results mean Huddersfield Town will face Nottingham Forest in the play-off final on Sunday 29th May, but the league have moved to warn fans that entering the pitch and bringing pyrotechnics to games are both criminal offences ahead of the big occasion at Wembley.

The statement reads: “Unfortunately, at recent end-of season and Play-Off Semi-Final fixtures we have witnessed a number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play.

“These are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities and the EFL condemns in the strongest possible terms the reckless actions of individuals who have brought the game into disrepute with this unacceptable behaviour. The League is working closely with the Police and Clubs, offering its full support to the ongoing investigations.

“Supporters are reminded that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time and could result in a Club ban and criminal record. More importantly it puts the