In Italy, no one does more to dampen the spirit of calcio than the Public Security Authorities.

Responsible for determining whether restrictions will be imposed on away fans attending matches across the country, their decisions often have a significant impact on attendances each weekend.

While most of their decisions are taken in light of potential unrest, violence and crowd trouble, some of their rulings are a little trickier to fathom.

The call to bar individuals from Emilia-Romagna, the region where Cesena sits, from purchasing tickets for their upcoming match against Brescia on Saturday evening is case in point.

The order has created widespread anger from both sets of fans, particularly given their longstanding alliance.

The concept of “twinning” is common in Italy between supporters of opposing teams, often born from historical events.

The relationship between Brescia and Cesena fans goes back 40 years, starting in 1983 when Bianconeri ultras joined Rondinelle supporters in the stands to support their team against fierce rivals Rimini during a Serie C fixture. They repeated this gesture in 1989 when Cesena’s home ground was chosen as the neutral venue for their relegation play-off against Empoli.

The concerns raised by the authorities regarding potential crowd disturbances have enraged both clubs and their supporters to the extent that Brescia ultras have also pledged to boycott the match. It is a stand-off the club could do without.

“Now more than ever we would need our fans,” said boss Rolando Maran before the match.

“I’m sorry they can’t be there. It’s a difficult time. But to get through this moment, we would need everyone’s support.”

A difficult time is putting it mildly. Brescia supporters have not witnessed a home victory since September, and it has been 405 minutes since their team last scored at Stadio Mario Rigamonti. The relegation play-out positions are looming large in their rearview mirror.

Meanwhile, Cesena have their attention firmly fixed on the task ahead of them. A 2-0 victory over Salernitana last weekend – secured in part thanks to the actions of ballboy Ivan – has got their play-off campaign back on track.

A trip to Brescia presents an opportunity to capitalise on an opponent struggling at home, albeit without their own supporters present to cheer them on.

“Unfortunately, what could have been a great day of celebration ano sharing in the stands has been ruined,” said General Manager Corrado Di Taranto this week.

Collecting three more points in their pursuit of the play-offs may be a consolation that fans and club alike are willing to accept. 

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