London (AFP) – West Ham have been hit with a £100,000 ($129,000) fine by the Football Association for the supporter unrest which marred their 3-0 home defeat by Burnley last season.

The club’s co-chairmen David Gold and David Sullivan had objects thrown at them in the directors’ box, while a number of supporters invaded the pitch during the match on March 10 last year.

“West Ham United FC has been fined £100,000 for failing to ensure that its spectators conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and that no spectators or unauthorised persons encroached on to the pitch,” the FA said in a statement on Tuesday.

“The club denied the charge, but it was subsequently found proven, and was sanctioned by an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing on Friday.”

West Ham pointed the finger of blame at venue operator London Stadium 185 (LS185) — who are responsible for stewarding on matchdays.

In response to the FA findings, West Ham revealed 23 supporters had been banned over the past year for the part they played in the unsavoury scenes.

“We would like to reaffirm our sincere apologies for the scenes witnessed at our home game against Burnley almost a year ago,” it read.

“The club has done everything within its power to address the issues that occurred that day, despite having no control over matchday security operations — a point which is accepted and reflected in the FA’s findings.

“In line with our zero-tolerance approach, immediate action was taken against the perpetrators, resulting in 23 banning orders being issued.”

In its findings, the FA highlighted several issues which fall under the remit of LS185 including the number of stewards present and the training they had been afforded, and acknowledged the steps being taken since the incident.

West Ham went on to say that their relationship with both LS185 and E20 has now improved, but they would still prefer to have a more direct involvement in such matchday decisions.

“The club has made it clear for some time we would like to have greater control over our matchdays. We have the experience, know-how and a track record of success to oversee matchday operations,” added West Ham’s statement.

“It is now a matter of public record that our relationship with E20 and LS185 has improved and we are committed to working closely with all necessary agencies and authorities to ensure that safety and security measures are implemented to the highest standards.”