Football
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Birmingham City upset with QPR's investigation into coin-throw incident

Birmingham have questioned the approach to a coin-throwing allegation following their defeat at QPR.

The Championship side have reiterated they have a zero tolerance policy over any violence but are unhappy with Rangers and the police.

Birmingham insisted they were not consulted by the Metropolitan Police or Rangers before statements were issued on Saturday, while they are also concerned by some of the stewarding at Loftus Road following their 2-0 defeat.

"We note allegations of coin throwing arising from the match at QPR on Saturday and we stress that the club will take the strongest possible action in dealing with any individual found to have indulged in such a deplorable act," a statement read.

"The club also wishes to express its extreme disappointment that statements were released to the media during and after the match by QPR and Metropolitan Police without consultation with Birmingham City FC or West Midlands Police.

"A number of issues have since been brought to our attention from Saturday's match in regard the stewarding and policing that are of concern to the club and our supporters.

"We read from the Metropolitan Police's statement that three men were arrested, one for pitch encroachment. The QPR supporter who walked round pitchside to confront Birmingham City supporters was, we understand, not arrested.

"We will be making official representation to QPR, Metropolitan Police and West Midlands Police about these issues in order to ascertain the full facts of Saturday's events and gather evidence.

"As a club we abhor violence and anti-social behaviour at football matches and we will co-operate fully with the relevant authorities to ensure that the necessary and just punishments will be meted out to those responsible."

The incident is one in a number of recent flashpoints with objects allegedly thrown onto the pitch at Reading, Chelsea and Stoke this month.

The Football Association has been investigating each of the incidents and pledged to do all it can to assist the clubs involved and police.

No action is likely to be taken by the FA against any of the clubs, because it is accepted that it is impossible for clubs to fully safeguard against individuals throwing coins onto the pitch.

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