Southport FC rivals Chester are appalled at the behaviour of their fans after play off loss

Southport FC's long term rivalry with Chester will continue next season after Chester lost at home to Brackley Town in the play off semi final.

The result sparked a pitch invasion by Chester supporters. Southport had their biggest attendance for years for the home match against Chester last month with over 2600 there.

Chester have issued a statement. 

Chester Football Club is appalled at the violence and criminal damage caused at the end of our National League North play-off semi-final with Brackley Town on Sunday.

We utterly condemn the actions of those responsible and apologise to Brackley Town and supporters of both clubs.

Our Club is ashamed to be associated with anyone involved in the crowd disorder and angry that the actions of a minority have completely overshadowed the occasion.

Such behaviour not only tarnishes our reputation, but also has a financial cost and places the football club at risk of fines, points deductions or playing behind closed doors. The impact is also felt by our staff, volunteers, and the players and management, who were prevented from returning to the pitch to thank our genuine fans for their support this season.

We have extensive CCTV footage which will be shared with the authorities and will work with Cheshire Police to ensure the perpetrators are identified and face the strongest action.

Anyone with any information should contact Cheshire Police on 101, or visit www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us, quoting IML 1539302. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​