A group of hard-core Birkirkara fans turned up at the Mġarr Ground yesterday evening to voice their disapproval over the team’s stuttering league form.

Birkirkara have slipped to third in the BOV Premier League, one point behind rivals Valletta, after a 2-1 defeat to Floriana before the international break was followed by a 4-3 upset to unfancied Pietà Hotspurs last Saturday.

Eyewitnesses told Times of Malta that the supporters made their feelings known to the players as they started training.

The fans lit flares and hurled a smoke canister on to the pitch as they called on the players, technical staff and the club’s administration to get their act together.

Having hung a banner across the perimeter fence with the words ‘Respect the club’, the fans demanded more respect, urging the players, coaching staff and officials to show solidarity with those who have stayed behind the team through thick and thin.

There were no reports of violence and the players and coaches were never threatened.

Contacted by Times of Malta last night, Paul Zammit, the Birkirkara coach, said: “It was a pacific demonstration by the club’s ultras. They are very passionate about the team.

“Training went ahead as planned and there were no interruptions.

“At the end of the session, I went to speak to the fans who reiterated their support for the team.

“It was a serene discussion between people who want the best for Birkirkara FC.”

The Stripes, runners-up in the Premier League last season after losing a last-day title showdown against Valletta, are 13 points behind leaders Hibs after losing five of their opening 12 league matches.