Andrew Cullen shares ‘regret’ amid Portsmouth points deduction news
Andrew Cullen has shared a regret that he has amid talk of a possible Portsmouth points deduction.
Pompey are currently pushing to earn their safety in the Championship, and a victory against Watford at Fratton Park on Monday (21 April) will guarantee that.
John Mousinho has guided his team into a position where they can avoid the drop to League One, despite having the lowest team budget in the division.
However, reports of a potential points deduction could lead to the Blues’ hard work on the pitch being for nothing due to the behaviour of fans.
Cullen shares his ‘only’ regret
Portsmouth were fined £50,000 in January after Barnsley player Jamie McCart and an official were hit by objects thrown by the fans.
Portsmouth were warned about the behaviour of their fans at that time, but they were ignored as more objects were thrown during the recent game against Derby.
The assistant referee was targeted by fans, and while Portsmouth have appealed for information, the FA and the police are now involved in this situation.
It was reported that due to it being a repeat offence from the Blues there is a chance that a points deduction could be handed out, which would be a significant blow at this stage in the season.
Cullen has now addressed the situation during his pre-match programme notes where he stressed the regret he has about the incident.
| Portsmouth – final three | Date |
| Watford (H) | 21 April |
| Sheffield Wed (A) | 26 April |
| Hull (H) | 3 May |
The Portsmouth Executive Director also took the time to urge fans not to cause any further incidents in their final two home matches this season, which is going to be crucial if they want to avoid any punishment.
He said: “The only tinge of regret that afternoon was the behaviour of one individual who chose to throw a plastic soft drink bottle towards the assistant referee on the North Stand touchline. An exhaustive review of the many CCTV cameras throughout the stadium means we have been able to identify them.
“They will be suspended from attending any further matches, with the prospect of more severe sanctions to follow as the investigation continues. Everyone will be aware that an FA Regulatory Commission heavily sanctioned the club in January and further warned us as to future spectator behaviour.
“Over the next two home games, and indeed beyond, we appeal for everyone’s support in helping to prevent such further irresponsible individual behaviour and not to put the club at a greater risk of more financial, or indeed sporting, sanctions.”
Portsmouth fans want to see investment
While Portsmouth fans are being urged to behave, they have been busy pushing for the hierarchy to invest in the team during the summer transfer window.
Mousinho has been performing miracles on a shoestring budget at Fratton Park, showcasing his quality as a manager.
Fans have now pushed Eric Eisner to dig into his pockets and financially back Mousinho during the summer transfer window to reward him for his hard work this season, especially if the Blues avoid relegation.