Barbadian goalkeeper Alvin Rouse in action for Dungannon

Ballymena United have said that they do not accept the findings of the IFA Disciplinary Appeals Board which upheld a £1,250 fine for racist chanting.

A statement from the club said they were "extremely disappointed" at the outcome and would consider its position further at its next Board meeting.

"After a thorough investigation the club is satisfied that its supporters were not involved in racist chanting.

"We provided compelling evidence, including video evidence," they added.

"The Committee and Appeals Board preferred the inconsistent, inaccurate and exaggerated evidence provided by the match officials and Dungannon Swifts FC," the statement added.

"It is regretful that Ballymena United Football Club and its supporters have been labelled as being racist when nothing could be further from the truth.

"Our Club is committed to the IFA Football for All campaign and welcomes players and supporters from all ethnic and religious backgrounds to the Showgrounds."

Representatives of United attended an appeal last week but have been told by the IFA there is "no compelling evidence" to overturn the fine.

Ballymena disputed claims that a section of their fans directed racial abuse at Swifts goalkeeper Alvin Rouse in a league game at Stangmore Park.

The IFA Appeals Board said video evidence produced was "inconclusive".

The Showgrounds club insisted a chant was not directed at Rouse, although the Barbadian goalkeeper later said that he was racially abused by "one or two fans" during the game.

The match was played on 15 August.

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