Linfield hit with stadium ban following fireworks display at Coleraine Showgrounds

Linfield fans during February's game against Coleraine at The Showgrounds

Linfield have been hit with three match stadium bans by the Irish FA in their latest disciplinary punishments.

As well as being fined £3,000 and given a two match stadium ban following incidents at the Premiership fixture at Coleraine last month, the Disciplinary Committee has activated a one-match stadium ban for home spectators in the West Stand of Windsor Park – this follows a one-game ban that was imposed and subsequently suspended following the Boxing Day game against Glentoran.

That one-match stadium ban for home spectators in the West Stand must be implemented for the next Sports Direct Premiership home fixture following the sanction being imposed on Monday, March 4 – the Blues are at home to Newry City on March 16.

The additional two match full stadium ban will immediately follow the fixture where the West Stand only is closed and must be implemented for the next two applicable Sports Direct Premiership home fixtures - they are games that will be played after the split.

Linfield have the right to challenge the two-match full stadium ban with the Disciplinary Committee.

Given the severity of the punishment, the Blues will give serious consideration to an appeal.

It’s the latest chapter in what has been a depressing tale for the club this season.

In December Linfield were sanctioned by the Irish FA for sectarian chanting and a racist comment from their supporters at matches.

The south Belfast club were fined £4,000 and also given a suspended one-match stadium ban for their travelling fans.

The incidents of supporter misconduct took place in Premiership matches away to Larne on September 15, at Cliftonville on October 20 and at home to