“The new, tightened measures have been introduced to ensure the safety of the players,” said a KNVB spokesman. “Fireworks, beer mugs, lighters, etc. are objects that do not belong on the field and that can endanger the safety of the players. Unlike these objects, a ball is part of the game and on the field. The moment a second ball affects the game, there is spoilage and it is therefore undesirable. In this case we will expressly evaluate it and take it up with FC Utrecht.”
KNVB clarifies rules about safety in stadiums after FC Utrecht match
