Shelbourne have offered an apology to the linemsan struck by an object thrown from the away section during their 2-2 draw at Drogheda United and condemned the actions of the individual responsible for the incident.
Shortly after Sean Boyd had scored an equaliser for the current SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division leaders on Friday night at Weavers Park, match official Dermot Broughton was struck deep into stoppage time by an item which emanated from the part of the stadium where the visiting Shels fans were congregated.
The incident prompted referee Rob Hennessy to pause the match, before taking both teams off the field while Broughton was medically assessed.
After a 15 minute interval, Broughton returned – but to the other side – as the game’s final moments were played out.
In a statement, Shelbourne said the actions of the individual who threw the object had served as an “embarrassment” to the north Dublin club and pledged to co-operate with An Garda Síochána.
“Shelbourne FC wishes to offer a full and unequivocal apology to Dermot Broughton, one of the officials in this evening’s game against Drogheda United,” the club said.
“We completely condemn the actions of the individual responsible, which has brought embarrassment to our club and fellow supporters.
“We will fully cooperate with Gardaí and officials to identify this individual and ensure they are held accountable for this abhorrent behavior.
“As investigations commence, the club will make no further comment.”
Speaking to LOI TV after the game, Shelbourne manager Damien Duff also condemned the behaviour of the individual responsible.
“First and foremost I hope the linesman’s okay,” said the former Republic of Ireland international.
“One person has let this football club down tonight. He or she should be absolutely ashamed of themselves and if we go back to the football, that person has affected the flow of the game.”
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