Shortly before half-time during yesterday’s match against Montrose, we were made aware that a small minority of Montrose supporters – ‘ultras’ – had been joined in the stadium by a larger group who associated themselves with Raith Rovers. At half-time, this group left the ‘visitors’ section of the stadium and made their way towards the ‘home’ end, where the gates had been routinely opened to allow home supporters to exit temporarily for smoking breaks.

This group then engaged in violent and indiscriminate behaviour, causing a state of alarm and attacking home supporters. Sadly, a couple of our supporters received injuries which required medical attention. Thankfully, we understand the damage is not serious, and we hope they have not suffered any lasting psychological impact.

We want to stress no prior intelligence had been received to suggest any risk of such an incident on Saturday. Our colleagues at Montrose FC were equally shocked and upset by what unfolded.

We would like to thank our supporters for the restraint shown under severe provocation. We also wish to recognise the efforts of our directors, our security team and the Montrose Supporters’ Liaison Officer to safeguard our fans when under threat and while awaiting the arrival of police officers.

We are reviewing CCTV footage to identify those responsible, and footage will be passed to Police Scotland. We would ask that anyone with additional video evidence please send it to our Security Officer, Steven Brandon, via email at stevenbrandon@eastfifefc.co.uk.

Please be assured that we are committed to ensuring Bayview Stadium continues to be a safe and welcoming environment for all who visit.