THE compliance director at the Midland Football League believes the crowd disturbances that occurred during the end of Hereford FC's match at Alvechurch was caused by "outside influences" – but has warned Bulls supporters not to encroach onto the pitch at any time.

Referee Kevin Carroll had to halt proceedings shortly after Hereford goalkeeper Martin Horsell saved Jordan Nadat's penalty after supporters from both sides clashed.

Trouble also brewed during the Bulls' match at Dunkirk the previous Saturday and both incidents have been referred to the relevant county Football Associations to deal with.

"The Midland Football League (MFL) management board met on Monday night and I gave my views regarding the events that unfolded at Dunkirk and Alvechurch," said Gary Foxall, the MFL compliance director.

"They have now been referred to the county FAs – Nottinghamshire for Dunkirk, Birmingham for Alvechurch and Herefordshire for Hereford.

"They will be asking the clubs for their views on the events of both games and it will be up to the County FAs if they want to progress further or accept the views of the clubs.

"To my understanding, the police didn't arrest anyone and are taking no further action and, as a league, we are pleased by the reaction from both Hereford and Alvechurch.

"Both clubs are working in tandem with myself and we are working together to ascertain what went wrong by looking at footage.

"It is my own view though that the troubles were caused by outside influences, for example alleged supporters from professional clubs who have had previous history with Hereford United. But, I would advise all Hereford fans from entering the playing area at all times.

"My main objective is the safety of players and match officials.

"It may be in jubilation, but entering the field of play is not allowed and could get Hereford into serious trouble."

Foxall added that Hereford fans have conducted themselves very well for the majority of games this season and the first game that saw any trouble was at Lye Town on December 19. However, he is fearful that further incidents could occur as Hereford close in on the title.

"As we go into the last few games, Hereford's away following will increase, but what you get with that are 'outsiders' wanting to spoil it for everyone."

He also confirmed that Alvechurch were within their rights to allow an extra 50 to 60 fans into last Thursday's game, despite them not having a ticket.

Other supporters had MFL passes, resulting in the attendance being 145 more than the permitted 1,500.

"Salisbury took in an extra 50 or 60 fans so, in conjunction with the police, they took the same stance, although I don't know where the additional people came from," said Foxall.

"I don't think alcohol was a problem though – I think that would have been more of a problem if it was played on Easter Monday.

"I think it was the influence of outside influences."

Foxall also confirmed that grounds in the MFL are only required to have one "fully protected pay box", for example a turnstile, and Alvechurch had an adequate emergency exit.