A non-league football fixture in England was abandoned this weekend following an alleged incident of sexist abuse directed at the match official.
The game between AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Coventry Sphinx in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division was called off during the interval. According to statements from both clubs, the decision came after a comment of a sexist nature was reportedly aimed at the female referee toward the end of the first half.
Attempts to identify the individual responsible at the Coventry Sphinx ground were unsuccessful. The official subsequently informed the teams that she did not feel comfortable continuing with the match, leading to its abandonment.
In an official statement, AFC Rushden & Diamonds expressed deep concern and disappointment, stating that discriminatory behaviour has no place within their community club or football at large. Coventry Sphinx confirmed they will launch an investigation into the incident and cooperate fully with inquiries from the league and the Football Association.
The Northern Premier League Midlands Division operates at the eighth tier of the English football pyramid. The FA has yet to issue a public comment on the matter.