Aberdeen fans threw objects including a vodka bottle, coins, and flares at Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin during a Scottish Premiership match at Tannadice Park.
Incident Details
It happened in the closing moments of Dundee United’s 1-0 win over Aberdeen, from a stoppage-time goal by Kevin Holt. Goodwin, who left Aberdeen in January 2023, condemned the actions of the traveling supporters. “There was a bottle of vodka, coins, firelighters, everything falling down on us,” he said.
Call for Lifetime Bans
Such actions, Goodwin said, were unacceptable and called for stringent actions against the perpetrators. He called on police to use available CCTV footage to identify offenders and issue lifetime football bans. He expressed hope that authorities would catch these individuals and ban them from attending matches in Aberdeen or elsewhere for life.
No sign of forced entry, police say
Police Scotland has since launched an investigation into the incident. Inspector Martin Pattie said: “We are aware of pyrotechnics being set off and objects being thrown during the match at Tannadice… Enquiries in relation to the matter are ongoing. Aberdeen fans will be questioned.”
Ongoing Problem of Fan Misbehavior
They have been part of a worrying pattern of fan misbehaviour in Scottish football. There have been similar incidents in recent history where clubs have condemned objects being thrown, such as during the Falkirk versus Dunfermline match as clubs condemned the incident and police became involved. Aberdeen has seen similar events in the past.
Football Authorities’ Stance
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) and affiliated clubs have always been clear that this behavior is not acceptable. They emphasize that actions putting players, officials or fellow spectators at risk are unacceptable and an attack on the integrity of the sport. Clubs are working with law enforcement to identify and punish offenders accordingly.
Impact on the Game
Such incidents not only create safety concerns but also spoil the sporting show. “The players, their attitude, their application again tonight, it’s all about my players,” said Goodwin. Outstanding. But, he added, these accomplishments are marred by the dubious deeds of some. The actions of some Aberdeen fans particularly affected the game’s atmosphere.
