Masked thieves broke into Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium and stole valuables belonging to players and equipment before defacing replica shirts.<br /><br />The three intruders, wearing hoodies, masks, and balaclavas, broke into the tunnel area at the League One club's stadium between 9.30 pm and 9.50 pm on Sunday.<br /><br />CCTV footage showed the trio rummaging through kit crates before they decided to write their initials on a Burton home shirt left out for players to sign.<br /><br />They were later picked up by cameras strolling across the pitch before climbing over a metal fence and leaving the stadium.<br /><br />Burton said 'valuable items of first-team players' belongings and equipment were stolen from the tunnel area of the stadium following the squad's return from Stevenage. Signed merchandise was also defaced.'<br /><br />They have appealed to the general public for help identifying the responsible individuals.<br /><br />Pirelli Stadium bar manager Ben Robinson told ITV News: 'The things they've taken - it's not as if they can make any money from it. They've not stolen anything they can sell on.<br /><br />'For me, it's a bit more personal, and pointless. They're not very nice people. They've got no respect for the club and people in general.'<br /><br />The Brewers had boosted their League One survival chances with a 2-1 win at Stevenage on Saturday.<br /><br />However, Tuesday night's 2-1 home loss to Cheltenham Town left them just one place and two points above the relegation zone.<br /><br />Cheltenham, the team immediately below them, also still has a game in hand. <br /><br />Burton plays at home to Reading this Saturday as they look to secure their third-tier safety.<br /><br />Burton has asked anybody with information to contact hr@burtonalbionfc.co.uk in confidence.
