Portsmouth make official plea to supporters as major sanctions possible

Portsmouth are on the verge of securing Championship safety, but this could now be jeopardised as a result of poor fan behaviour.

Pompey's 2-2 draw with Derby County was a fiery one, with tensions boiling over on and off the pitch in what was a crucial game for both sides.

Criticism was directed at a minority of Portsmouth fans after, as objects were launched at the assistant referees at Fratton Park.

Following this incident, Portsmouth have issued another club statement and pleaded with supporters to behave in accordance with the law at games.

Portsmouth slam illegal incidents at matches

Portsmouth were criticised for their fans' behaviour against Derby, with a points deduction even suggested as a punishment, and they are now cracking down on such incidents.

Pompey have issued an official statement on their website (20 April) highlighting some punishments which have been dished out to supporters breaking the rules at matches.

"We know that just one incident is too many and can have a serious impact on both match-going supporters and those guilty of such behaviour, who face stadium bans, criminal records and other impacts on their education or employment," they stated.

"In January, the club was fined £50,000 by an FA Regulatory Commission following incidents at the match against Barnsley last season, including a pitch incursion and a number of incidents where objects were thrown at different times at participants on the pitch. The club and our supporters were also warned as to future conduct.

"We want all of you to be able to enjoy the season’s finale and show their appreciation to the Pompey players and staff, but to do that, we are asking fans to play their part in ensuring that the actions of the minority do not spoil the game for all."

Portsmouth cannot afford Championship sanctions

If Portsmouth fans violate the rules again and land the club in hot water, it could end up being a disaster for John Mousinho's side.

While the club has so far been hit with financial sanctions, any punishment from the EFL Championship could even stretch to points deductions if Portsmouth breach the rules again.

With Pompey six points clear of the relegation zone, they are on the verge of safety, but a points deduction would jeopardise that.

Pompey have performed well at times in their first Championship season in over a decade, but their achievement of securing survival may be put at stake if they are hit with heavy on-field sanctions for their fans' behaviour.

Portsmouth are 18th in the table with three games remaining, and one more victory should seal their place in the Championship for a second consecutive season.