Sunderland have issued a statement strongly condemning the actions of a small number of Burnley supporters during their 4-2 defeat at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Missiles were thrown into the home end, forcing several supporters to require treatment. The game was briefly paused in the first half to enable supporters to receive treatment and Burnley apologised for the 'unacceptable behaviour' of some of their supporters.
Sunderland say they are supporting those impacted and will meet with supporters' groups on Wednesday to fast track the implementation of additional safety measures.
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The club released the following statement: "Sunderland AFC strongly condemns the conduct of a small number of visiting supporters during Saturday’s fixture against Burnley.
"Several fans required medical treatment after being struck by missiles thrown from the away section and we are currently supporting those impacted by this completely unacceptable behaviour. Following the Club’s opening-day fixture versus Coventry City, a range of additional safety measures were introduced.
"These included the searching of all away fans upon entering the stadium, increasing the stewarding capacity in the North Stand, improving our CCTV network and visiting other EFL Clubs to explore further solutions.
"Comprehensive long-term measures were set to be introduced ahead of the 2023-24 season, but following Saturday’s events, we acknowledge that action must now be taken without delay.
"We will meet with supporters’ groups on Wednesday to fast track the implementation of these additional measures and a further update will be communicated to all supporters in due course.
"SAFC would like to thank fans for their continued patience and support."
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