A North-East football club's newly-formed independent supporters' association could play a major role in helping the team's trophy chances this season.
Officials at Bishop Auckland FC feared a ban from the FA Trophy competition after violence marred a third-round tie away to Burton Albion, in January.
Both clubs were ordered to report to the FA after 100 North-East thugs went on a wrecking spree in the Staffordshire town centre.
There was also trouble during the match itself, which Bishop Auckland lost 2-0, when spectators twice invaded the pitch.
The club has since been considering an ID card system for away travel. One suggestion from the FA was that the Bishops, who play in the Unibond Premier League, play home games behind closed doors in the competition.
But the new Bishop Auckland FC Independent Supporters' Club will effectively become the side's new membership scheme, according to its newsletter, the Two Blues News.
Membership of the association will be required for admittance to designated away games, and also to travel to away fixtures on the club or supporters' club coaches.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article