Wanderers boss John Tstatsimas has issued a scathing statement condemning a controversial banner that marred the club’s long-awaited Sydney derby victory on the weekend.
Mr Tsatsimas called the banner unfurled by members of Western Sydney’s Red and Black Bloc, which appeared to show Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold engaged in oral sex, “completely unaceptable”.
The banner has drawn widespread criticism and on Tuesday landed the Wanderers a hefty fine.
“We confirm that the Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club has today received an infringement notice relating to supporter behaviour from Football Federation Australia (FFA) due to the actions of some fans during the match against Sydney FC on the weekend at ANZ Stadium,” Mr Tsatsimas said in a statement.
“Notwithstanding that the Club has yet to submit its response, Western Sydney Wanderers FC unequivocally states - and reinforces its position provided on Sunday after the match - that it does not in any capacity welcome, authorise or condone the display of imagery depicted in a banner on Saturday night. It is an affront to many on a multitude of levels and is completely unacceptable.”
The Wanderers chief executive said the club was working with the venue and FFA to find the culprits. He said the club would continue to fight for supporters’ rights and wouldn’t allow the “disrespectful actions of a few” to tarnish its fan base.
“As a club made up of the most diverse and inclusive cross-section of members and fans in Australian sport we are committed to working with FFA and our stadiums to ensure our matches remain a positive family friendly environment.”
The banner emerged late in the game as a Brendon Santalab goal gave the Wanderers its first derby win over their cross-town rivals since January 2014.
Members of the Red and Black Bloc stood by their actions on Monday, calling the FFA “dictatorial” for issuing a show cause notice to the Wanderers demanding an explanation over the incident.