Birmingham hit with FA fine

Birmingham have been fined 40,000 pounds by the Football Association due to a pitch invasion after their Carling Cup clash with Aston Villa.

More than 1000 Birmingham fans invaded the St Andrews pitch after their team’s 2-1 win over their west Midlands rivals Villa in December.

The club was also warned about its future conduct and suspended half of the fine until the end of the 2013-14 season.

In response to the punishment, a Birmingham statement read: “The fine could have been much more significant but was determined after the FA commented on the professionalism adopted by Birmingham City in its preparation of the fixture, which was well documented, and the level of co-operation the club gave following the investigation and charge,” the statement read.

“Club officials would like to thank the FA and regulatory commission for their patience and assistance with this matter.”

Birmingham went on to win the Carling Cup, securing the trophy with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal at Wembley on February 27. It was the Premier League club’s first silverware in 48 years.