MLS Sanctions Fans
MLS sanctions Dynamo fans for bad behavior at road games
by KHOU.com staffPosted on February 28, 2012 at 12:35 PM Updated Wednesday, Feb 29 at 12:08 AM
HOUSTON – Bad behavior at road games has prompted the MLS to limit the privileges of traveling Houston Dynamo fans.
Major League Soccer sent a letter to organized fan groups this week, detailing the sanctions.
According to the MLS, the fan Code of Conduct was breached by Dynamo supporters on at least three occasions in the 2011 season.
During a game vs. the LA Galazy at Home Depot Center on November 20, 2011, MLS officials said Dynamo fans threw smoke bombs and other hazardous objects onto the field and used obscene language and gestures.
At a game against Sporting Kansas City at LIVESTRONG Park on November 6, 2011, league officials said another prohibited smoke bomb was brought into the stadium and ignited.
On September 24, 2011, during a game against FC Dallas at Pizza Hut Park, yet another smoke bomb was brought in and lit, the MLS said.
As a result of their conduct, traveling Dynamo fans will not be allowed to bring previously permitted items into any park – things like flags, banners, confetti and drums.
The road-game restrictions will be in place at least for the Dynamo-Chivas game at Home Depot Center on March 11, 2012, and the Dynamo-Sporting Kansas City game at LIVESTRONG Park on July 7, 2012.
The MLS said they will determine whether to lift the ban after the opening of BBVA Compass Stadium.
“While regrettable that these incidents took place, it is our hope that 2012 marks the year that such misconduct is a thing of the past so that we can return to our focus of supporting the Texian Army, El Battallon, Brickwall Firm, La Bateria and any other legitimate group supporting the Dynamo,” MLS officials wrote.