Rotherham United and Bristol Rovers have been charged by the Football Association after a touchline altercation in their recent League Two fixture. The event resulted in red cards for Rotherham manager Alex Bruce and Bristol Rovers assistant manager Paul Raynor late in the game, which Bristol Rovers won to remain at the summit of the division.
Each club has been charged with failing to control their players, who are alleged to have behaved improperly during the incident. Bruce and Raynor also face personal charges for purportedly acting in an improper way. Those involved have until a specified Monday in September to reply to the allegations.
The confrontation happened late in added time during a closely fought match at Bristol Rovers' home ground. A goal scored in the first half was enough for the home side to secure a close win. Their latest results show a mixed run of form.
Typical punishments for these kinds of charges may involve financial penalties for the teams and suspensions from the touchline for the individuals. The FA will review the replies from Rotherham, Bristol Rovers, Bruce, and Raynor before determining any punishment. This disciplinary matter compounds a disappointing beginning to the campaign for Rotherham, whose goal difference is negative.
Rotherham now trail the division leaders, Bristol Rovers, by a significant margin. Their next League Two match is at home against the team at the foot of the table. The complete list of future games can be found on the fixtures page. The side will aim to put this event behind them and concentrate on climbing the standings.
