Shelbourne selling 'virtual ticket' to compensate Galway United for upcoming absence of away supporters

Shelbourne have announced the sale of a 'virtual ticket' to raise funds that will be given to Galway United as compensation for the absence of the Dublin club's supporters at Eamonn Deacy Park on Friday.

The league leaders' fans have been banned from attending the game after a linesman was struck by an object thrown from the away supporters' section in their 2-2 draw at Drogheda United on 5 April.

Manager Damien Duff subsequently said that "the whole club is embarrassed and hurt and I know the fans were as well. We've all got tarred one brush because of one person.

"I would be absolutely shocked if it happened again ever, anytime soon, whatever. We're going to do everything we can to ensure that it doesn't happen again at Tolka Park but also at any other stadiums."

Shelbourne said today that they would sell €10 tickets, which would be entered into a raffle, and give all of the proceeds to Galway United to compensate for the lack of income away fans would have brought.

A statement from Shelbourne said: "In light of the current circumstances prohibiting our supporters from attending this Friday's match against Galway United, Shelbourne FC is this evening launching a fundraiser where 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Galway United.

"Collective punishment for the conduct of the few impacts unfairly on the vast majority of Shelbourne FC supporters who abide by the rules and represent the club with pride in Tolka Park and all around Ireland.

"It also disproportionately impacts Galway United and the local economy, who will be without the business of what would’ve been a packed away end at Eamonn Deacy Park on Friday night, with many supporters staying overnight too.

"We invite all Shelbourne FC supporters and football fans