Match abandoned due to sexist remarks aimed at referee
A Northern Premier League Midlands Division match between AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Coventry Sphinx was abandoned following allegations of sexist remarks directed at a female match official from the stands, reports BritPanorama.
The game was halted at halftime after the referee indicated that she felt unable to continue officiating due to the inappropriate comments made near the end of the first half. Despite attempts to address the situation, the referee chose not to resume play.
The club confirmed that the referee had initially paused the match while efforts were made to remove the alleged perpetrator. First team manager Elliot Sandy expressed concern over the incident, stating that there is “no place for it in football” and that he felt “really sorry for her.” The club also noted that attempts to identify the individual responsible were unsuccessful.
AFC Rushden & Diamonds expressed their deep dismay regarding the incident and emphasized their commitment to taking the strongest actions possible if any connection to their organization is found.
In a statement posted on X, the club asserted that “discriminatory language or actions of any kind have absolutely no place within our community club or the wider football community.” They have escalated the matter to the relevant governing bodies.
The club has issued an appeal for any spectators who witnessed the incident or have information to come forward.
Such incidents serve as a timely reminder of the challenges faced in creating an inclusive atmosphere at all levels of sport, where the struggle against discrimination continues to require vigilant engagement from everyone involved.
