SAINTS have informed season ticket holders that they will be closing the entire of Block 1 of the Itchen North Stand due to “unacceptable behaviour” last weekend.

The St Mary’s side slipped to a third successive defeat with Everton running out 2-1 winners despite Joe Aribo’s opener.

The club reveals a Premier League matchday report identified a total of 27 missiles thrown across the segregation line by both home and away supporters.

A previous statement from the club in August included the threat of further restrictions if poor behaviour continued, which has since triggered the latest news that several season ticket holders will be relocated to a new seat with immediate effect.

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Part of the email sent to season ticket holders on Wednesday read: "Unfortunately, last Saturday's fixture saw more unacceptable behaviour from both home and away fans.

“There was a dangerous surge towards the segregation line following our goal and the Premier League matchday report identified a total of 27 missiles being thrown across the segregation line by both home and away supporters.

"As a result, it is with great disappointment that we'll be closing Block 1 in Itchen North in the interest of fan safety. All season ticket holders in that area will be moved into Block 2 with immediate effect.

“We'll also install new CCTV cameras to identify and deal with any further anti-social or unsafe behaviour in these areas."

Saints warned the Daily Echo that anti-social fans could be banned for up to three years back in February, while the latest trouble could result in a wall being built between home and away supporters if unruly behaviour persists.

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