We’re used to seeing ‘fireworks’ so to speak, on the pitch; often used to describe some particularly sparkly performances that light up a stadium and get the crowd going.
However, the recent game between Ajax and Groningen saw literal whizbangs within minutes of kick-off at the Johan Cruyff ArenA in what was a quite incredible display of discontentment from the home side’s ultra supporters known as the F-Side Group. Hundreds of fireworks were let off simultaneously, while flares were also thrown onto the pitch.
It was a pyrotechnic experience that shocked and in other situations may have awed, though had no place in a football stadium with disregard for other people’s safety. Referee Bas Nijhuis abandoned the game after just six minutes over concerns for the players.
Indeed, proceedings were halted for 40 minutes, though once the game did get underway again, it lasted just a few minutes before fireworks started again and the referee called the game off.
Completely Unacceptable Behaviour
Although the game was rearranged and re-played two days later in the afternoon behind closed doors, there is absolutely no excuse for these type of antics from supposed fans.
When a small minority ruins an experience like this, which for many, is a treat, there has to be consequences. As such, each of the culprits is facing a $450 fine and a stadium ban of between 18 and 60 months.
Of course, there is also a financial cost to the club, prompting many to question whether these criminals are actually real Ajax supporters who genuinely have its best interests at heart. The incident has meant that the club has had to issue refunds, while also facing fines and security reviews.
It was found that the culprits had forced an emergency exit open that got them into the stand and, as a result, they were able to smuggle in the fireworks without them being detected.
Emerging in the aftermath of this, which further made this such a despicable act is that attending this game was the dying wish of a lifelong fan, whose condition has since worsened.
Ajax Situation Not Ideal
It isn’t as though the club needed more headaches. Ajax currently finds itself in one of its worst league positions for years and while fans are clearly frustrated, behaviour such as this does not achieve anything positive. Some reports meanwhile, indicate that the primary reason was that it was organised as a tribute to a recently deceased member of the F-Side Group.
Ajax needs to turn its current situation around though. Dumped out of the Champions League and with European qualification looking unlikely, at this point, what would usually be considered a fairly achievable KNVP Cup (Dutch Cup) win should now be the primary target and, at least raise morale.
Whether Fred Grim (currently interim manager), stays in charge or a new boss is hired, the club needs to turn things around. If there is some sort of success this season, we may just see fireworks for the right reasons.