THE Football Association has written to Burnley Football Club asking for their observations about incidents during Saturday's 5-2 defeat by Reading.

And having started an investigation the cash-strapped Clarets could find themselves hit by a fine or even having points deducted, although the latter is unlikely

Referee Roy Pearson's report arrived at FA headquarters yesterday and included allegations about objects being thrown on to the pitch close to the Reading keeper Marcus Hahnemann. They are thought to include a pie and a plastic drinks bottle with the evidence handed over to the fourth official.

The club has already issued a statement condemning the actions of a group of individuals in the Jimmy McIlroy Stand, lower tier.

The incidents took place in the second half of the match and helped to contribute to the delay that saw five minutes of stoppage time at the end of the game.

"I'm not allowed to comment on these things but the referee was saying that things had been thrown from behind the goal," said Clarets boss Stan Ternent.

But as the club looks to encourage fans to come to Turf Moor they have been quick to denounce those involved and they are hoping for witnesses to come forward.

The statement reads: "This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and may result in the club receiving a heavy fine and other penalties.

"The club is making every effort to identify the person or persons responsible and anyone with any information who witnessed these actions should contact Alex Wood, the club's ground safety officer, immediately on 01282 700000."