Markets Field stand damaged due to 'accidental excessive force'

The FAI has established that "accidental excessive force" was the cause of damage to the spectator stand at the Markets Field, which resulted in fans being evacuated from the Limerick venue.

A section of Waterford supporters had to vacate the away stand during November's First Division play-off final, and as a result, the game was halted for five first-half minutes regarding the concerns over structural issues.

The FAI investigated the issue and have concluded that neither malicious intent nor structural issues were factors in the damaging of the stand.

"Following an incident during the League of Ireland Men's First Division Play-Off fixture between Galway United FC and Waterford FC on Friday, November 4, 2022, at Markets Field in Limerick, a full investigation was conducted and a report has now been completed and sent to all stakeholders involved," said the FAI in a statement released on Wednesday.

"The report found that the incident did not occur due to malicious activity, nor a structural stand issue, but accidental excessive force contributed to the damage of the seats.

"The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and the League of Ireland are currently reviewing all stadium certificates for the 2023 season and will add additional inspections where high risks are identified.

"Following the conclusion of the 2022 season, a Safety and Security Conference took place with all relevant club personnel.

"Further match operations workshops and training is currently on-going ahead of the 2023 League of Ireland season.

"The FAI would like to thank all stakeholders involved in the report An Garda Siochana, Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership, Treaty United FC and Waterford FC."