Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett has given his reaction to the news that Everton have been fined £300,000 for their pitch invasion last season.

The Lowdown: Hefty fine

As per BBC Sport, the Merseyside club have been fined £300,000 for the two pitch invasions during their win at Goodison Park against Crystal Palace in the Premier League in May.

The hosts fought back from 2-0 down to secure their top-flight status in the penultimate game of the campaign, and supporters flooded onto the pitch to celebrate the late winner scored by Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and again after the final whistle.

The Football Association (FA) claimed that supporters used 'threatening and violent behaviour' as they invaded the pitch, and the Toffees admitted to failing to control the crowd.

Eagles manager Patrick Vieira appeared to have been involved in an altercation with a Blues supporter as he made his way to the away dressing room, but no further action was taken towards that.

The Latest: Hackett 'shocked'

Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett was left 'shocked' by the size of the fine given to Everton, claiming that it is 'really difficult' to stop pitch invasions because of the number of police and stewards that you would have to have in the stadium at a given time:

“It’s not a small fine.

“There’s no question that this is an area of control that is difficult to achieve for a football club.

“How many police and how many stewards can you actually have around the ground to prevent pitch invasions? It’s really difficult.

“What they’ve done is, get the tennis ball and bounce it back over the net. The authorities have said ‘You, Mr. Football Club are responsible. You resolve the issue. What we are going to do is fine you’.

“These are large amounts, there is no question. Even I was a little bit shocked when I saw £300,000.

“This is a very, very clear message that is coming out of football.

“I think they should be complimented for saying ‘You have a responsibility to look after the people inside the stadium and the players’.

“We saw Patrick Vieira last year almost being assaulted and having to take evasive action. He always gives me the impression that he’s 7ft high because he’s got a huge personality and a huge presence.

“I think they are spot on.”

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The Verdict: Big fines needed

It is unfortunate for the Toffees having been on the brunt of it, but big fines are needed in order to try and stamp out violent behaviour during pitch invasions.

This was not the only incident towards the end of the season either, and so there will be fears that some people will get seriously hurt next time around with emotions running so high.

While winning promotion or avoiding relegation is a joyous occasion and should be celebrated by supporters, some unfortunately do tend to go over the top, and so big fines like the one Frank Lampard's side have received will hopefully help stamp that out.