Football match stopped over alleged homophobic abuse

A non-league football match was abandoned due to an alleged incident of homophobic language directed at a player.

The United Counties League Premier Division North game between Skegness Town and Derbyshire side Clay Cross Town, was stopped in the 80th minute on Saturday with the Lincolnshire side winning 3-2.

In a statement, Clay Cross Town chairman Lee Watson said one of their players reported the alleged homophobic language to the referee. The official then took the players off the field and spoke to both managers.

Watson said: “The decision was made by the referee to abandon the fixture given the alleged comment made by the opposition and threats of a violent nature.”

In their own statement, Skegness Town said: “As per perceived protocol, the referee took the players off the pitch.

“The referee then asked both managers if their sides wished to continue, which Clay Cross refused to continue and therefore the game was abandoned.”

The Lincolnshire side added “no further comment will be made until all investigations are completed”.

The FA and The United Counties League have been contacted for comment.

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