Rochdale have issued a lifetime ban from the Crown Oil Arena to Oldham supporter Daniel Brennan, who ran onto the pitch and headed towards the referee during a Sky Bet League One match.

Referee Peter Bankes had to side-step the pitch invader, who then slipped and was restrained by Latics defender Anthony Gerrard, moments after Dale were awarded a penalty in their 0-0 draw with fellow strugglers Oldham on April 17.

Brennan, 27, was charged by police with pitch encroachment, possession of a class A drug and a section 4 public order offence – using threatening/abusive/insulting words/behaviour with intent to cause fear of/provoke unlawful violence.

When later appearing at Manchester Magistrates Court, Brennan subsequently pleaded guilty. He was fined and issued with a three-year football banning order.

Oldham, who were eventually relegated, had already handed the fan a two-year banning order from the club.

Rochdale, who survived to stay in League One next season, confirmed the lifetime stadium ban in a statement on the club’s official website.

Dale Chairman Chris Dunphy said: “As chairman of Rochdale Football Club, I was extremely disappointed with outcome of the recent court hearing of an Oldham supporter who invaded the pitch to confront the match referee during the recent local derby game.

“His actions should not be tolerated under any circumstances in today’s game.

“We, at Rochdale, are working long and hard to promote our club as family friendly, where mums and dads can bring their children to enjoy the matchday experience. It is our responsibility ensure everybody’s safety as far as possible, both on and off the field of play.

“Therefore, irrespective of the ban handed down by the court to Daniel Brennan, he will be banned from football matches at the Crown Oil Area for life.

“I think it is important that I send out the message that we are not prepared to tolerate this type behaviour at the Crown Oil Arena under any circumstances.”