Aberdeen’s ticket allocation for their Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers has been reduced by 500 following supporter incidents at Kilmarnock.
The Dons had initially been allocated around 17,000 tickets for the semi final tie at Hampden on 31 October. However, an SPFL sanction has resulted in the reduction after a pitch incursion and pyrotechnic display during Aberdeen’s quarter final win at Rugby Park. The club will also be required to cover the cost of the withdrawn seats.
Some Aberdeen supporters entered the pitch after the Dons defeated Kilmarnock in a penalty shoot-out to reach the semi-finals.
Newly appointed Pittodrie chief executive Adrian Bevington acknowledged the passion within Aberdeen’s support, while insisting that the overwhelming majority of fans behave appropriately.
He said: “We have a hugely passionate fanbase and the vast majority are undoubtedly very well behaved. What we have to ensure is that moving forward we don’t put ourselves in a position again where we can be at risk of further sanction.”
In a further statement, Aberdeen reminded supporters that using pyrotechnics is illegal and could result in a football banning order.
The club added: “This latest decision demonstrates the significant consequences such incidents can have, not only for the club, but for supporters who simply want to follow and back the team.
“We ask all supporters to consider the consequences of their actions and to help protect the matchday experience for everyone.”