Crystal Palace spark row with fans as Premier League club accused of 'sabotage'
Crystal Palace are at war with their Holmesdale Fanatics supporters group by removing a long-standing banner in order to put in new LED advertising.
Their banner carries the group's name and sits in the upper tier of the Holmesdale Road End at Selhurst Park. But Eagles chiefs have now decided to remove it in favour of adding advertising to that part of their home ground.
That decision has infuriated the Fanatics, who have accused the club of 'sabotage'. The Fanatics insisted the move was "beyond comprehension" as they revealed their anger at the Eagles bosses.
"After a strong start on Saturday, it's time to push on together for what we all hope will be a proud unifed era. Our top flight status has been built upon that very unity and galvanised by a unique fanbase and style of support which brings untold positives," a statement from the group read.
"So for the club to be sabotaging that very support is beyond comprehension. Removing the long standing banner for more soulless LED advertising goes against every principle that the Palace identity has been built on and is flat out insulting to years of hard work and loyality.
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"This banner is symbolic and represents the unique Holmesdale support from all in the stand. Even corporate teams such as Chelsea and Manchester United have chosen to offer multiple upper tier spaces for banners."
They have also insisted the move will have a negative impact on new boss Oliver Glasner as he navigates his first weeks in charge. The statement added: "Glasner has come from a league which puts supporters front and centre but currently he, the players and Palace fans are being denied the true level of support we are capable of by these poor club decisions, choosing corporations over their own fans.
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Crystal Palace have removed the Holmesdale Fanatics banner from their ground (Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)"All attempts to discuss this with the club get nowhere - as they continue to prioritise forced entertainment such as tacky light and flame shows. Everything our supports stands against.
"Until our banner is returned and and displays are again permitted from the upper tier, the group will be withdrawining flags and tifos. Urgent action is needed from them before the next home game. Let supporters support. Restore the Holmesdale."
In response, Palace have insisted the LED system brings in revenue for the club. They also insisted that meetings have been held with the Fanatics to find a solution, so far to no avail.
“The club supports fan-led displays, they bring vibrancy to Selhurst Park and we will always assist any group who wants to create them. We have installed a wraparound LED system that helps greatly with the spectacle and also drives revenue for the club," a spokesperson told the Evening Standard.
“We are working on various alternative positions for the banner to avoid blocking an LED screen, but so far those we have suggested, such as placing it on the roof of the Holmesdale, have not been deemed acceptable.
“We will continue to work to find a solution as we believe both elements can be in place. We believe both fan-led displays and club light shows have a place and create the great atmosphere that makes Selhurst Park unique.”
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