English FA hits Everton with hefty fine after pitch invasions

Everton have been fined 300,000 pounds (328,000 dollars) by the Football Association (FA) in England for the pitch invasions which marred their English Premier League (EPL) match against Crystal Palace.

Supporters entered the field at Goodison Park during the 3-2 win over the Eagles on May 19, which guaranteed their top-flight status last season.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s 84th-minute winner sparked a pitch invasion and a second took place after the final whistle with Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira involved in an altercation with a supporter.

The FA charged Everton back in July over the incidents and revealed the punishment on Friday afternoon.

“Everton FC has been fined 300,000 pounds for two breaches of FA Rule E20 which occurred during the 84th minute of its EPL fixture against Crystal Palace and following the final whistle,” an FA spokesperson said.

“Everton FC admitted failing to ensure that its spectators —- and all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers —- conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from using threatening and violent behaviour whilst encroaching onto the pitch area.

“An independent regulatory commission subsequently imposed these sanctions, which remain subject to appeal, and the written reasons for its decisions will be published in due course.”