Police investigating report racist abuse hurled at South Shields FC player after game at Warrington

The Mariners are through to he second the second qualifying round of the Emirates FA Cup following the 5-4 victory on penalties at Warrington last night, Tuesday, September 22.

South Shields FC has confirmed police have been asked to handle the complaint and has been joined by the home side in condemning any such behaviour.

The Gazette understands a member of the crowd in the home end directed abuse at one of the away side at Cantilever Park.

A statement issued today states: “South Shields Football Club welcomes the swift action taken by Warrington Town in relation to an incident which took place at Tuesday's Emirates FA Cup tie at Cantilever Park.

“We understand that the police are now dealing with the matter and video footage is being reviewed.

“South Shields Football Club abhors racism and discrimination of all forms and will continue to do all it can to eradicate such deplorable behaviour from the game.

“We also stand firmly alongside those players inadvertently involved in Tuesday's incident and will continue to support them internally.

“The club will be making no further comment at this time.”

A reduced number of fans were able to travel to watch the fixture, with numbers capped at 600 as the club is classed as ‘non-elite’ as part of the Covid-19 restrictions on spectators.

It follows a statement shared by Warrington Town FC following the game.

It said: “The club has been made aware of an incident that took place at the end of tonight’s game against South Shields.

“Video footage is being reviewed and the perpetuator, once identified, will be banned from attending games at Cantilever Park.

“We have enjoyed a healthy rivalry with South Shields over recent years on the pitch, and we will not allow the actions of any individual to undermine that.

“Not only that, this behaviour threatens to undo the good work done by the club to ensure the return of fans for the start of this season.”

A spokesperson for Cheshire Constabulary said: “Officers have been made aware of an allegation of a racially aggravated offence at a football match between Warrington Town FC and South Shields FC.

“An investigation is now underway and inquiries are ongoing.”

A message from the editor:

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers - and consequently the revenue we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

Subscribe to the Shields Gazette website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit here to sign up. You can subscribe to the newspaper with 20% off here. Thank you.