Football clubs condemn racist abuse during match

A football club has said "racist, Islamophobic and discriminatory" abuse was directed at its players and coaching staff during a game.

Bradford-based Route One Rovers said the abuse took place during their match away to Lincolnshire side Brigg Town on Saturday.

Both clubs have condemned the incident, which Brigg Town said was allegedly committed by "a small number of individuals in the crowd".

"Racism has absolutely no place in football and it certainly has no place at our club," said Brigg chairman Jim Huxford.

The Northern Counties East League Division One fixture was temporarily stopped when the incident was reported to the match referee in the second half.

Route One Rovers said several of its team members were currently observing Ramadan, "making the incident even more distressing".

"We were also extremely disappointed to hear discriminatory comments directed towards individuals with disabilities," they added.

"We are proud of the dignity, strength and professionalism shown by our players and coaching staff in difficult circumstances."

Brigg Town said they were conducting an internal investigation in the incident, adding: "[We] will work closely with the FA and the league as they carry out their own enquiries."

"We ask all supporters to represent this club with pride, respect and integrity at all times," said Huxford.

Route One Rovers won the match 1-0.

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