Western Sydney chairman Paul Lederer has condemned the treatment of Wanderers fans by authorities, saying “excessive policing” is making the club’s supporters feel like “second-class citizens”.
Watch the biggest Aussie sports & the best from overseas LIVE on Kayo Sports | Get Kayo now >
Lederer said the situation reached a “tipping point” on Saturday night when “up to 20 public order and riot squad officers” were positioned behind Wanderers supporter bays at Campbelltown Stadium during the club’s 0-0 draw with Macarthur FC.
The game also featured 20 minutes of silence from Western Sydney’s active supporter group, the Red and Black Bloc, in protest at being told by NSW Police to surrender their drums, megaphone and banners two hours before kick-off.
Lederer is fed up, saying “enough is enough”.
“Since the beginning of the season, we have witnessed repeated issues surrounding the treatment of our supporters,” he said in a statement posted on the Wanderers’ website.
“The events of this weekend have brought those frustrations to a tipping point.
“The treatment of our members and fans has been totally unacceptable. Enough is enough.
“The RBB are an integral part of our club which we are extremely proud of. That will never change, and we will continue to stand behind the positive contribution they make to the Wanderers and football in this country.
“Our supporters should never be made to feel like second-class citizens simply because they choose to support a football club.
“This level of treatment is neither reasonable nor proportionate, and there is no justification for a riot squad presence at our football matches.”
Lederer stressed that the club did not “condone anti-social behaviour from any individual”.
“Those who do the wrong thing must be held accountable, but the actions of individuals should never define an entire fan base,” he said.
“The overwhelming majority of our supporters are everyday people who simply want to enjoy football and passionately support their team.
“We will never allow anyone to take that away from them.
“We recognise and respect the responsibility of NSW Police, stadium authorities and the A-Leagues to ensure everyone’s safety, but that responsibility must be exercised fairly, consistently and with respect for those attending our matches.
“For over a decade, we have worked in good faith with the relevant authorities, investing significant time in constructive dialogue and building relationships to address longstanding challenges, but our patience and willingness to work collaboratively should never be mistaken for acceptance.
“Our members and fans have waited long enough, and deserve to be treated with common sense and the utmost respect.
“1 will not accept our members and fans being treated as though their passion makes them any less deserving of respect. Neither will this club.
“We will continue to raise our concerns directly with NSW Police, the A-Leagues and relevant stakeholders, seek clear answers and push for fair, consistent and respectful treatment.”