The Cove came in for special thanks for self-policing an unknown supporter who lit a flare then dropped it onto the ground under seats where the Sydney fans were standing.

Cove fans immediately picked up the flare and passed it onto security while other supporters grabbed the guy who lit it along with his mates who tried to intervene.

They were then also passed onto security.

"These group of guys had nothing to do with The Cove," said Sydney fans spokesman Grant Muir.

"A couple of our guys grabbed him and took him to the security staff and a couple of his mates were unhappy with that so they were taken to the security staff as well."

He added: "Flares are bloody dangerous things and are not allowed. There is no place for flares in this country - it's as simple as that."

The supporters stepped in after talks with security staff and FFA officials at EnergyAustralia Stadium before the match.

"They made us feel comfortable in taking action," said Muir. "We are very aware of the dangers but we talked about it all beforehand.

"If we think there is danger of it going beyond handing someone over to security then we'll leave it for the security staff to deal with."

The response earned an open letter of thanks from the club midweek, with operations manager David Mason praising the fans.

"Sydney FC would like to offer a massive Thank You to the Fans within The Cove who took self-regulation to new heights at Energy Australia Stadium last Saturday night," said the letter.

"It was noted by Sydney FC management on the night how quick the fans were to deal with the flare. This was backed up after the game by security and Newcastle Jets management and then later by the FFA.

"Within the FFA and Hyundai A-League, the behaviour and self regulation of The Cove is used as an example for other fan groups and this is yet another illustration of that."

It added: "Not only do you offer the team unrivalled support (especially on the road) but you are also helping us to uphold the good behaviour we are striving to have at Sydney FC games. Thanks again."

That praise was echoed by the FFA today.

FFA spokesperson Bonita Mersiades said: "The FFA has been very pleased with the cooperation of The Cove in working with Sydney FC and security consultants to help make the match environment more enjoyable for all fans.

"We know that fans are the essential lifeblood, colour and passion of the game and their input and collaboration are greatly valued."