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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Isaac Johnson

Oldham Athletic relegated after being forced to play behind closed doors following protest

Oldham Athletic's League Two match against Salford City was heavily disrupted after supporters invaded the Boundary Park pitch to protest against their owners.

A banner reading ‘get out of our club’ was seen from the hundreds who stormed the turf, who directed their anger at the owner’s box. Abdallah Lemsagam, who faces calls to sell the club, was not at the match.

The Athletic reports that manager John Sheridan was on the pitch speaking to the unhappy supporters while police managed the protest. Oldham were one of the founder clubs of the Premier League in 1992 but never returned to the top flight after their relegation in 1994.

READ MORE: Oldham Athletic FC news

(@Smedders1966)

Play eventually resumed over two hours later once the stadium had been emptied, with Oldham going on to lose the game 2-1, a result that confirms their relegation to the National League.

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner has since commented on the protest, tweeting: "Solidarity with all Oldham supporters today. You are the heart and soul of this club and it’s devastating to see true fans paying the price for others’ mistakes. Your voice must now be listened to. Speak truth to power, stick together and be back stronger."

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