THE FA is investigating after Colchester United fans claimed they were unfairly treated by stewards during their league clash at the weekend.
Supporters alleged they were met with a heavy-handed response by stewards at AFC Wimbledon as the U’s fell to a 2-1 defeat in head coach Matt Bloomfield’s first match in charge.
Some fans claimed staff had taken exception to a banner produced by the travelling faithful about divisive club chairman Robbie Cowling.
Colchester United’s dedicated policeman Niki Howard stated he has since voiced his concerns to the club.
In a Tweet, Mr Howard admitted he was “a little surprised” at how the stewards had positioned themselves during the game.
An AFC Wimbledon spokesman, however, said no issues were raised during a debrief following the match at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
The FA has now told the Gazette it is investigating what happened on Saturday.
U’s season ticket holder Si Collinson said he felt like he was “entering a prison” such was the hostility the 593 fans faced upon arrival.
He said he believed the actions of the stewards had upset fans.
Disappointed for the 593 travelling U’s today.
— Colchester United FC Police (@CUFCPolice) October 1, 2022
A couple of ejections and I’m aware of issues with the stewarding at the game today. A matter being discussed with the host club. #ColU 🔵⚪️
Mr Collinson said: “As the fans were getting louder and more raucous, some of the stewards looked like they were getting nervous.
“Their body language and demeanor did change.
“They looked like they were almost hoping things exploded, they were flooding into what was quite a small area.
“Judging from people’s reactions, the stewards were being more handsy than they needed to be.”
Several fans were ejected from the ground during the game.
The AFC Wimbledon spokesman said the club “takes the safety of spectators, players and staff very seriously and has put in place measures to ensure that safety is the number one priority.”
He stated the stewards are an external group who oversee stewarding operations at the club.
“As with all clubs, our stewarding structure and processes are constantly being reviewed,” he added.
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