Sandy Row FC, a football club in south Belfast, has urged its members not to get drawn into violence in the city, after another night of civil unrest.
Police have resorted to using water cannon during another night of rioting in the Antrim city. Stones and fireworks were thrown at officers, while children as young as 12 have been involved in the violence.
Last Friday night, petrol bombs, bricks and bottles were thrown at police during sustained rioting in the Sandy Row area.
And Sandy Row FC have in a Facebook post urged its fans, players and staff not to get involved.
At Sandy Row FC we are firm believer's that politics should remain separate from football and sports in general. We use...
Posted by Sandy Row Football Club on Thursday, April 8, 2021
"We use the medium of sport to break down religious barriers and have forged some great relationships and ongoing friendship's with clubs from all over Belfast and further afield.
"We have worked closely organising cross community summer leagues, coaching courses and other events with clubs such as Belfast Celtic YM, Willowbank, Realta, Albion Star, Cliftonville FC, St James Swift's and St Pat's to name a few.
"We would encourage all of our players, coaches and supporters young and old to refrain from getting involved in the current ongoing situation.
"Something that may seem like fun at the time could cost you in future life and effect your ability to get work and travel among other things. Football for all age groups will be starting back next week so hopefully this will give everyone something more positive to focus on."
Separately, St Malachy's Old Boys Youth FC echoed those sentiments on their own Facebook page.
As a cross community organisation between two clubs and representing over 700 players and their families we urge for...
Posted by St. Malachy's Old Boys Youth FC on Thursday, April 8, 2021
"As a cross community organisation between two clubs and representing over 700 players and their families we urge for peace.
"Both communities deserve to feel safe in their areas and not to be drawn into destroying our streets. 12 months ago we were supporting our communities not destroying them.
"We need to look after each other and stay safe.
"We ask all our members, their families and our communities to refrain from engaging in this violence. Please do not get drawn in. Be better than our past. Represent our future.
"We look forward to all our members safely returning to football next week."
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