Ruaidhrí Higgins on pyro problem in League of Ireland: ‘When it comes to endangering anybody in the ground, that’s when it becomes a problem.’

Bohemian FC goalkeeper Kacper Chorazka watches as Flares interrupt the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division match between Bohemian FC and St. Patrick's Athletic FC at Richmond Park, Dublin on Feb. 23, 2024

Bohemian FC goalkeeper Kacper Chorazka watches as Flares interrupt the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division match between Bohemian FC and St. Patrick's Athletic FC at Richmond Park, Dublin on Feb. 23, 2024 Credit: Thomas Flinkow (ETPhotos)

Derry City manager Ruaidhrí Higgins has talked about the danger of pyrotechnics following the recent incident that saw Cian Byrne hit with a flare.

In the February 23rd clash between St Patrick’s Athletic and Bohemians at Richmond Park, in a coordinated anti-FAI protest, fans lit flares, and some were thrown on the pitch from the away end with one striking Bohs player Cian Byrne on the arm.

As a result, Bohemians have received a one match ban for away supporters, their upcoming fixture against Drogheda United in Weavers Park.

“They can look atmospheric and create a real buzz around the ground,” the Candystripes boss said at his press event this week as reported in the Irish Sun. “I can get that from an optics point of view but when it comes to players being in danger, or supporters in danger, it doesn’t matter who it is.

“When it comes to endangering anybody in the ground, that’s when it becomes a problem.”
Higgins team went top of the table on Friday night along with Shelbourne with both sides on seven points from the available nine on offer.

Paul Mullen grabbed a late winner in Derry's 2-1 win over St. Pat's on Friday.

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