Craig Brown urges Motherwell fans to stop flares

Motherwell manager Craig Brown has urged supporters to support the team vocally rather than let off flares inside the ground.

Flares were set alight by fans at Motherwell’s last three matches.

“They’re dangerous,” Brown told BBC Scotland. “You could be blinded by one of one of these things or disfigured.

“It’s crazy to think that bit of extra support you’re giving your team is so important that you could put someone’s face or body at risk.”

Motherwell host St Mirren in the Scottish Premier League on Saturday.

We don’t need flares to support Motherwell – just give us a shout

Motherwell manager Craig Brown

“So we plead with the supporters not to be involved with flares and to give us vocal support, as they do so well, particularly away from home,” stressed Brown.

“We don’t need flares to support Motherwell – just give us a shout. Police have discouraged them and our safety people here are concerned as we don’t want an incident.”

Brown expects St Mirren to provide a stern test for his third-top side despite the Paisley outfit sitting bottom.

“We know St Mirren will be very difficult,” he said. “Every opponent in this league is difficult because it’s a compact arrangement from top to bottom, outwith the Old Firm.

“We’re fortunate at the moment we’re doing all right but very well aware that it can change.

“And we’re determined to ensure we give our best in every game and we need to do that to maintain the standard we have set.”