Alliance South Belfast MLA Paula Bradshaw has stated that provocative conduct by football fans near and inside Windsor Park must be addressed through a coordinated management plan to prevent future incidents.

The MLA's comments follow reports of disorder during a match on Friday night, where a minority of supporters were accused of let themselves and the sport down. Ms Bradshaw emphasized that while local residents have a right to be outraged by sectarian chanting or provocative actions, there is no justification for individuals taking the law into their own hands.

She expressed concern regarding the escalation of the situation, which resulted in injuries to nine police officers. Ms Bradshaw said: "Provocative comments are no way to respond to provocative behaviour. What is required after a minority of fans let themselves and the game down on Friday night is a managed response to ensure there is no repeat. People living locally have every right to be disgusted by anyone acting or chanting provocatively. However, there is no justification for taking matters into their own hands. Public authorities must have a comprehensive plan to address this situation and provide assurance that any attacks on public servants or sectarian chanting and provocative behaviour will be robustly dealt with."

Acknowledging the frustration of the local community over what many perceived as an insufficient initial response, the MLA reiterated that violence against the police is unacceptable.

Ms Bradshaw continued: "I understand the local frustrations regarding what appears to have been an inadequate response to the situation on Friday. However, I am also concerned about the nine police officers who were injured during the incident. No public servant deserves to be assaulted or abused. I will work with the authorities to ensure such behaviour is prevented from occurring again in the area, but I will also reinforce that it is for the police and other authorities to deliver this assurance."