SAINTS have issued a strong statement of intent following last night's misbehaviour, including throwing flares and beer bottles, at last night's game at Warrington.

Although the club thanked the fans for their support this season and accepted that the vast majority of Saints supporters behave impeccably - they have made it their intention to root out the minority who are spoiling it for most other fans and tarniishing the club's reputation.

They will ban for life those guilty of the unpleasant incidents which including throwing beer at a Warrington player.

A statement released this morning read: "There remains a minority who continue to act in an anti-social manner that puts the safety of fellow supporters at risk, particularly concerning pyrotechnics and flares.

"Pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited under both rugby and football ground regulations.

"They can burn at an extraordinary heat and cause serious injuries to those who carry them and fellow spectators.

"Not to mention the damage they can cause to the playing surface – costing the club thousands of pounds.

"The club has taken preventative actions at ‘home’ games this season with added stewarding and ‘sniffer’ dogs patrolling the stadium.

"However, a small selection of supporters continue to cause issues on our visits to opposing Super League stadia.

"This was again evident in Thursday evening’s victory over Warrington Wolves as a pyrotechnic was thrown onto the field. Alcohol was also thrown at a Warrington player.

"Both instances are simply not acceptable, and these actions do not reflect the culture of our club.

"This is not the first time the throwing of objects has been highlighted to us.

"These are mindless actions involving a small minority of our St Helens fans and is not acceptable."

The club says it will continue to work with the relevant authorities to ensure those responsible for such disorder are held to account for their actions.

It continued: "These irresponsible people will be issued with life bans and could also be subject to a police prosecution.

"Any spectator who would like to help the club in our investigations can confidentially contact the club on: keepmeupdated@saintsrlfc.com."