South Sydney chief executive Shane Richardson has condemned a section of the club’s supporters following the unfurling of an offensive banner during last Friday’s defeat by the Sydney Roosters in the minor premiership decider at ANZ Stadium.
A record crowd of 59,708 attended the game – the most for an NRL non-finals encounter – but as the teams ran onto the field a sign depicting the Roosters’ logo with the words “Scum: forever in our shadow” written across it was held aloft.
“Friday night’s blockbuster against the Roosters was outstandingly supported by our members and supporters and we would like to thank you for all for your encouragement and involvement on the night,” Richardson said.
“However, there was a small group of so-called Rabbitohs supporters who took it upon themselves to create an offensive banner.
“The club would like to state that in no way do we condone the banner that was displayed, or any other derogatory messaging.”
Richardson said the club is studying CCTV to find the perpetrators and if they are found to be members they will have their memberships revoked.
“The club encourages our members and supporters to create signs and banners that support our team and our players, rather than criticising the opposition,” he said.