Drogs to cover 'full cost' of Oriel Park pitch damage

Drogheda United will cover the full cost of the damage caused to Dundalk's Oriel Park pitch after fans threw flares onto the field of play before last week's SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division derby.

There's been a huge fallout to the incident, which resulted in significant damage the newly relaid artificial surface at Oriel.

A 12-year-old child was also struck by a flare and sustained injuries to his face.

The League of Ireland's disciplinary committee imposed heavy sanctions on the Drogs, including a €15,000 fine and a ban on supporters attending their next four away games.

On Friday evening, Drogheda issued a statement accepting the sanctions, vowing to cover the cost of repairs and confirming "a number of individuals were found to have engaged in negative fan behaviour and have been sanctioned by the club".

The statement read: "Drogheda United FC would like to thank the Independent Disciplinary Committee of the FAI for hearing our case in full following the recent SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division fixture against Dundalk FC at Oriel Park on Friday, 20 February 2026.

"We fully accept the sanctions imposed, including the €15,000 fine, the four-match away supporter ban, and the prohibition on our supporters attending fixtures at Oriel Park for the remainder of the 2026 season.

"The events that occurred are deeply regrettable and Drogheda United FC is currently working closely with Dundalk FC regarding the necessary pitch repairs, and we will be covering the full cost of the damage caused.

"Following an internal review, a number of individuals were found to have engaged in negative fan behaviour and have been sanctioned by the club. We will continue to work with Dundalk FC and An Garda Síochána during this investigation.

"We also wish to reiterate that Drogheda United operates a strict and newly updated zero tolerance policy at Sullivan and Lambe Park. The possession, use, or throwing of pyrotechnics - or any behaviour that endangers others - will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Individuals found to be in breach of stadium regulations will face immediate and severe consequences, including stadium bans and further action where appropriate.

"Our supporters are the heartbeat of this football club. The overwhelming majority represent Drogheda United with pride, passion and respect. We now ask everyone associated with the club to come together, stand united, and get fully behind the team for tonight’s game.

"Let’s ensure that Sullivan and Lambe Park remains a safe, welcoming and positive environment for all fans, families and members of our wider football community."

Drogheda United - unbeaten so far this season - are at home to Shelbourne tonight.