Dundalk FC Faces Security Review After Flare Incident Injures Supporter
Dundalk Football Club is reviewing its security protocols following an incident at Friday night’s League of Ireland Premier Division match against Drogheda United, where a 12-year-old supporter was injured by a flare thrown from the away fans’ section. The incident occurred amidst a series of disturbances that marred the Louth derby, leading to a joint statement of condemnation from both clubs and a planned meeting between officials.
Incident Details and Injuries
During the match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, several flares were thrown by Drogheda United supporters onto the newly laid artificial surface at Oriel Park, causing approximately 51 scorch marks of varying depths [LMFM News]. More seriously, a flare struck a young Dundalk supporter, causing burns to his face and leaving him “quite shook,” according to Dundalk FC CEO Joe McGuinness [LMFM News].
Additional Disturbances
The incidents extended beyond the stadium. Clashes between fans occurred outside Clarke train station before the game, and Gardaí arrested a man in his 20s following a public order incident on Carrickmacross Road after the final whistle [LMFM News].
Club Response and Joint Statement
Both Dundalk FC and Drogheda United FC released a joint statement strongly condemning the actions of a minority of individuals, stating that such behavior has no place in football and undermines the spirit of rivalry [LMFM News]. The clubs pledged full cooperation with An Garda Síochána and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) disciplinary process. They also emphasized the importance of supporters rejecting such behavior and ensuring future fixtures are remembered for the football itself.
Damage Assessment and Future Security Measures
Dundalk FC is currently assessing the full extent of the damage to the 3G pitch, which was recently unveiled in a pre-match ceremony. McGuinness indicated that the repair costs will be “significant” [LMFM News]. The club will review security measures, considering both physical and security mitigations, to protect the pitch and prevent future incidents. A meeting between Dundalk and Drogheda officials is scheduled for Tuesday to discuss the matter further.
Dundalk FC Overview
Dundalk Football Club, founded in 1903 as Dundalk G.N.R., competes in the League of Ireland Premier Division. Based in Dundalk, County Louth, the club plays its home games at Oriel Park, which has a capacity of 4,500 [Wikipedia]. The club is currently the League of Ireland First Division Champions and Leinster Senior Cup holders, having been promoted to the Premier Division for the 2026 season [Wikipedia]. Joe McGuinness is the current CEO [Independent.ie] and Ciarán Kilduff is the current manager [Wikipedia].