AFC Rushden & Diamonds’ match against Coventry Sphinx was abandoned on Saturday after sexist abuse was allegedly directed at a female referee, both non-league clubs said.
«A comment of a sexist nature was reportedly directed at the female match official towards the end of the first half. Attempts to identify the individual were unsuccessful,» AFC Rushden & Diamonds said in a statement.
«We are deeply concerned and disappointed that such behavior has occurred at one of our matches. Discriminatory language or actions of any kind have absolutely no place within our community club or the wider football community.»
In an interview with the Northamptonshire club’s media, manager Elliot Sandy said the referee stopped the match while the person was removed from the ground, before telling the teams at half-time that she did not feel comfortable continuing.
“We will conduct an investigation into the incident and will respond to all inquiries from the league and the FA,” Coventry Sphinx said in a statement.
Both teams play in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division, the eighth tier of the English football league system.
The FA did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.
Published on November 16, 2025
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