Preston North End have to respond to the FA’s letter and could face financial penalties

Preston North End have been warned by the Football Association following trouble during Saturday’s trip to Scunthorpe.

A minority of fans encroached the pitch and minor vandalism occured during the victory in the League One game.

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North End could be hit with financial penalties and have said they are working with Lancashire Police to identify those responsible.

A statement on the club website said: “Whilst it is widely accepted and appreciated that Preston North End have a terrific away following in League One, recently a small minority of our travelling fan base have caused problems for the Club and the vast majority of our excellent supporters.

“In light of events at Scunthorpe United on Saturday, whereby minor vandalism and pitch encroachment occurred, the Club have received a letter from the Football Association in relation to the behaviour of a small number of our fans.

“The Club now need to respond to these charges and sanctions could include financial penalties which would of course be to the detriment of our playing squad which ultimately hinders our chances of promotion back to the Championship – something everyone associated with Preston North End is striving towards.

“The ground safety department at North End, in conjunction with Lancashire Constabulary are looking to identify those responsible.

“We urge this small minority to please behave respectfully and to back the manager and the players like the vast majority of our support do when visiting other stadiums so we can all move forward together.”

PNE Police tweeted earlier this week to say arrests during away matches for North End fans increased by 83% last season and incidents of anti-social and disorder increased by 115%.

North End’s away match with Leyton Orient which was due to take place on Saturday 6 September has been cancelled.