Seadogs Racism Charge Dropped
25th May, 2012
Scarborough Athletic have had a charge of alleged racist comments made by a supporter during a Baris NCEL Premier Division match overturned on appeal.
The hearing found that there were insufficient grounds to uphold the alleged breach.
A club statement said: "Scarborough Athletic was recently charged by the North Riding County Football Association for a potential breach under FA Rule E20; a club charge for misconduct relating to alleged racist comments made at the home game against Armthorpe Welfare FC on Saturday 14 April.
"The club acknowledges its responsibility for the conduct of its supporters. We also accept that it is the duty of the match officials to report all potential racist matters, and the obligation of the NRCFA to respond accordingly. However, we are convinced that our supporters are not racist and we made the decision to appeal immediately.
"The club submitted a robust appeal which included photographic and video evidence, personal statements and other information. We would particularly like to thank Armthorpe Welfare FC for their support in putting together the appeal, to Darren and Sam Howes (our match day Stewards) for responding promptly to the Linesman's request for assistance, and to everyone else who subsequently provided us with information.
"The hearing found insufficient grounds to uphold the alleged breach, and we are pleased to say that the charge has been dropped completely."
(Story Source: Scarborough Athletic)
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