Pitch invasions could hamper West Ham's bid to stay in PL

West Ham are worried that a destructive atmosphere at the London Stadium will hinder their attempts to avoid relegation. The 3-0 defeat by Burnley prompted supporter demonstrations, pitch invasions and attacks on club owners, David Gold and David Sullivan. Fan dissatisfaction with the board, has the West Ham team worried that their chances of remaining in the Premier League will be lowered. 

During Saturday's match against Burnley, there were serious breaches of security in the stadium. Four pitch invasions, hundreds of disgruntled supporters protesting against the directors and David Sullivan on the receiving end of a small coin missile were all observed at the London Stadium. Security were unable to control the crowds and players were visibly agitated by the disruption in play. The team are under pressure to maintain their position in the Premier League and although they understand that fan-support for the board is waning, unwanted distractions from the game will be detrimental to the club. They are concerned that fan conflict and tension at matches will distract them from the job at hand. 

West Ham need to regroup ahead of their next game following a five-day training camp in Florida. They are calling on fans to rally behind the team for the remainder of the tournament. 

It seems that all parties involved are keen to deflect the blame for security failings. Sullivan holds the stadium operators, LS185, responsible and also criticised the Mayor for a slow police response time. Sadiq Khan's spokesperson denied having influence over the stadium and reiterated that a police presence is not required in the ground for low-category match. The London Legacy Development Corporation has begun an investigation with LS185 to find out if security failings could have been avoided beforehand.

The FA however, will be looking to the club for responsibility and they are expected to a receive a not-insignificant fine. In 2015, pitch invasions at Villa Park led to a £200,000 fine for Aston Villa.