QPR
have launched an investigation into the incident which occurred towards the
end of their 1-0 Premier League defeat to Chelsea at Loftus Road on Sunday.
A number of objects were thrown from the crowd including plastic bottles,
coins and matchday programmes as the Chelsea players celebrated Cesc
Fabregas’ 88th-minute winner.
Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic appeared to be struck on the head by a
cigarette lighter and the Football Association will be contacting both clubs
for their observations.
QPR could face FA sanctions as a result of the incident but, in the
meantime, the club have launched their own probe by reviewing CCTV footage
and have vowed to ban anyone found guilty of an offence.
A club spokesperson said: "The club is aware that objects were thrown by a
small section of supporters towards the pitch following Chelsea’s
88th-minute goal.
“The club takes the safety of all supporters and players very seriously and
are currently reviewing CCTV footage of the aftermath of the goal in an
attempt to identify those responsible.
“Whilst we understand that passions run high during derby fixtures, this is
not the kind of behaviour the club condones in any way, shape or form.
“We take a zero tolerance approach to this sort of behaviour and, if the
perpetrators are identified, they will be banned indefinitely from the
stadium and, where appropriate, we will liaise with the Metropolitan Police.
“The club are awaiting communication from the FA following the referee’s
report and will work closely with them in ensuring something like this does
not happen again.
“We would also appeal to fans with any information regarding yesterday's
incident to contact the club, as we feel it's important to identify the
perpetrators as soon as possible, as we believe they are not a true
representation of the QPR fan-base.”
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