WEYMOUTH FC will have a reduced capacity of fans in their next fixture after a minority of fans “let the club down badly”.

The Terras fell to a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Halifax Town at the Bob Lucas Stadium on Saturday, December 5, in what was the first game where home fans were allowed back into the stadium. The game was also broadcast live on BT Sport.

While it was a pivotal day for supporters to return, a section of fans failed to follow social distancing measures, brought alcohol into the ground and some ignored the smoking ban. This is despite “regular requests” from Covid volunteers, stewards and PA announcements.

A fan also ran onto the pitch after Weymouth scored to make it 2-1 in the second half.

Weymouth FC however thanked the “majority of fans who followed the Covid-19 safe practices" and thanked fans for their support during the game.

Their next game, against Dagenham and Redbridge, will have a reduced capacity. More details will be announced on Monday, December 7.

A spokesman for Weymouth Football Club said: “Weymouth Football Club are disappointed to announce that following today’s Test event the number of supporters that will be admitted to Tuesday’s game will be reduced.

“While we would like to thank the majority of fans who followed the Covid-19 safe practices, a minority let the club down badly.

“Despite regular requests from Covid volunteers, stewards and the PA announcements, some supporters failed to adequately social distance in some areas of the ground.

“Some supporters brought alcohol into the ground while others ignored the smoking ban.

“Following discussions with Dorset Police, on behalf of the Safety Advisory Group, a decision on the level of reduction will be announced on Monday.

“Fans should be in no doubt that should that event not go as desired, there is every likelihood that the Stadium Safety Advisory Group will refuse permission for fans to attend matches until such times as Covid restrictions are removed completely.”

Terras boss, Brian Stock, was pleased to see supporters back.

He said: “I’d like to say first and foremost that the biggest disappointment for me was that I didn’t go over and thank the fans at full time.

"I’ve gone on record stating how much we will need the fans and I can only apologise for not going over to thank them all.

"In the heat of the moment all I was thinking of was to go in to the changing room and dissect things from the game with the players and staff like I have done all season.

"I would like to thank the fans for the atmosphere they created and for sticking with us throughout the game, it’s been great to have you back.”