Portsmouth face possible repercussions after second-half incident involving fourth official brings game against WBA to temporary halt
Pompey’s game against West Brom was temporarily stopped in the second half
Pompey could find themselves in further trouble with the footballing authorites following an incident during Saturday’s Fratton Park victory against West Brom.
The game against the Baggies was temporarily stoppedin the second half by match referee Matt Donohue at 4.38pm after fourth official Alex Chilowicz appeared to be struck by an object thrown from the south stand.
An item was collected and handed to a member of staff at PO4 before play resumed.
A message delivered to fans via the Fratton Park PA system then warned supporters of the consequences of such actions and urged fans close to the incident to report what they might have witnessed.
Today’s event represents the second consecutive game that Pompey are left dealing with a crowd control issue.
During last week’s south-coast derby against Southampton, a number of ‘criminal offences’ inside the ground were committed.
Indeed, a statement released on the club’s website on Monday, revealed a ball boy needed medical attention, while a member of staff suffered burns, after a pyrotechnic device was thrown from the stands in the second half.
In another second-half incident, a supporter was arrested after running onto the pitch following Southampton taking the lead in the 57th minute.
In addition, two further arrests have been made in connection with incidents during the match.
Pompey had previously been warned of their future conduct and were fined £50,000 following a pitch invasion in April 2024 after securing the League One title against Barnsley.
The statement released by the Blues earlier this week revealed the club were wary of serious ramifications, including the possibility of a fine or points deduction.