HYDE United has called for one of its fans who allegedly aimed a ‘racist’ comment towards a referee to be identified.
A supporter believed to have been following the Tigers is said to have launched a slur towards Arran Williams in the first half of Boxing Day’s Northern Premier League Premier Division match at Ashton United.
An observer in the stands at Hurst Cross heard the reported comment – which The Correspondent understands was of a racial nature – and included it in his report to the Football Association.
It is not the first time this season the club’s followers have found themselves at the centre of claims of unacceptable language being used.
Hyde may be fined or even be ordered to play matches at the Project Solar Stadium behind closed doors if the accusation is proved,
Now after the governing body launched an investigation, the club has called for the supposed culprit to be made known.
In a statement, it said: “There has been a reported incident at the Boxing Day match at Ashton United involving a group of spectators (attributable to supporting Hyde United) that were stood opposite the main stand in the first half.
“The FA report refers to a discriminatory comment against the match referee in the 29th minute that was loud and audible and witnessed by the Referee Observer and is now subject to a formal investigation.
“Our Club has prided itself on its diversity over many years, so hearing of this type of behaviour is particularly galling to us and will simply NOT be tolerated.
“It is important that this individual or individuals are identified, so if anyone has information that will help with this then you can e-mail – office@hydeunited.co.uk – or leave a voicemail on 0161 367 7273 – which will be treated in strict confidence.
“Unfortunately, this is the second time in a matter of months that we have had to issue this type of message following misogynistic comments at the Tamworth FA Cup tie.
“For the avoidance of doubt, ALL supporters should refrain from any aggressive, violent or threatening behaviour and this prohibits any discriminatory language relating to race, gender, religion, sexual orientation or disability.”
Hyde and Ashton drew the match 1-1 in front of a crowd of 845, with Charlie Hayes-Green’s equaliser for the hosts in the third minute of injury time cancelling out Ben Kershaw’s 89th minute opener.
But the ramifications may be felt for some time as Hyde added: “Breaches of these regulations brings our club into disrepute, leads to sanctions involving substantial fines and a potential of having to play matches behind closed doors.
“We understand that 99.99 per cent of our supporters are genuine and have the club’s interests at heart, so we would ask for your help in this and any future instance.”