Credit: Imago / Sky Sports News

Harri Burton

Sat 9 August 2025 13:33, UK

Birmingham City supporters face major ramifications after the drama of missing out on all three points against Ipswich Town in their Championship opener.

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Chris Davies’ side appeared to be heading for their first win of the 2025/26 campaign after winning promotion from League One last season, with Jay Stansfield smashing home before the hour mark.

The clash was not without its controversial moments, however, with Kyogo Furuhashi having a goal ruled out for a contentious push, and referee Andrew Kitchen under major pressure on Friday, 8 August.

Fans were surprised to see just five yellow cards dished out at St Andrew’s Park, and all emotions bubbled over close to full-time as the Tractor Boys were given a chance to equalise at the death.

This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.

Lyndon Dykes was punished for a questionable handball decision in the penalty area, with George Hirst firing home from 12 yards, only for Christoph Klarer and Conor Chaplin to begin going at each other.

Replays showed the latter shooting the rebounded ball into the crowd, to which the defender reacted, and started yet another mass brawl, which both Birmingham and Ipswich are likely to be charged for.

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Now, attention has turned to a fan’s role in those late scenes at St Andrew’s Park, having jumped the barrier to get involved before being sent to the floor by a member of staff.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the incident, the former referee said: “Once the authorities take a look at this video clip, they will seek out the fan and charge him with assault.

“I expect a substantial ban,” Hackett continued after watching the controversial moment unfold following Ipswich’s equaliser.

Supporters at St Andrew’s Park are expecting yet more success after a record-breaking 2024/25 campaign, and will be hoping for all three points against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, 16 August.

The Blues have an EFL Cup game against Sheffield United in between, but the main focus will be on the league this season.

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