Cliftonville FC has condemned the disorder at their Irish Cup semi-final clash at Windsor Park, calling for fan safety and cooperation with authorities. Nine police officers were injured and a child was struck by a bottle during the unrest before the club's match against Dungannon Swifts. A 19-year-old man has since been charged with offences including riotous behaviour in connection with the disorder which took place around the Broadway area after the game. The club had stayed silent in the days following the events, leading the club's Tommy Breslin supporters' club, to publicly call on the Management Committee to speak out. On Wednesday evening, the club's Management Committee released a statement condemning the violence, adding that it had chosen not to comment prior to receiving a formal debrief from the PSNI. The statement read, 'It was widely reported that some youths had been involved in throwing objects and fireworks at police at Broadway.' All such incidents of violence are to be condemned and should form no part of any sporting event, at any time or any place. There can be no equivocation on that matter. The club also criticised comments by Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots, who said that local residents may have to block the road to ensure that Cliftonville FC supporters are unable to access Windsor Park from now on. The suggestion by a senior elected representative that the road and footpaths should be blocked to prevent Cliftonville fans walking to the stadium is both provocative and deeply regrettable, not least given the precedent it would establish in a divided society where fans of sporting teams and other organisations rely on being able to walk on footpaths to get to and from events of interest. Cliftonville FC remains committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all supporters. We are proud of the passion and support shown by the vast majority of our fanbase and will continue to work closely with the PSNI, relevant authorities and supporters groups to ensure that matchdays reflect the values of our Club. Our focus remains on moving forward together, strengthening relationships, supporting our community and ensuring that everyone can enjoy supporting Cliftonville FC in a safe and positive environment.