FA charge Preston North End over Chesterfield pitch invasion

Preston North End have been charged by the Football Association for the pitch invasion in their play-off semi-final win over Chesterfield at Deepdale.

It is alleged the Lilywhites failed to ensure that unauthorised persons refrained from provocative and/or abusive and/or threatening and/or violent behaviour.

Preston have until 15 June to respond.

Matthew Edwards, 20, was banned from attending games, external for three years after assaulting Spireites captain Ian Evatt.

Simon Grayson's side won the match, which took place on 10 May, 3-0 and then beat Swindon in the play-off final at Wembley to secure a return to the Championship.

FA regulations do not state any fixed sanction for pitch invasions, but penalties range from a fine to partial or complete ground closures if negligence is proven.

Earlier this year, Aston Villa were fined £200,000, external for the pitch invasions during and after their FA Cup fourth-round win over Midlands rivals West Bromwich Albion.