Port Vale could face FA fine over racial abuse
Port Vale could be hit by an FA fine after some of their fans were accused of racially abusing Burton defender Darren Moore during last week’s League Two stalemate at the Pirelli Stadium.
The FA launched an investigation after the alleged abuse was reported by match referee Phil Gibbs.
Vale chairman Bill Bratt responded by vowing to issue life bans to any supporters found guilty of “bigoted behaviour”.
“We’re deeply shocked and saddened by these reports, which brings the good name of Port Vale into disrepute,” he said.
“The club have always prided ourselves on the excellent work undertaken by the Valiants Against Racism initiative.
“Football has spent the last 30 years trying to attract families and ethnic minority groups into our grounds.
“That work must not be undone by a small and mindless minority.
“Any of our supporters who use racially-abusive language to any player or supporter will be apprehended and suffer an immediate life ban from Vale Park.
“This kind of bigoted behaviour is not acceptable.”
The alleged racial abuse was reported by West Midlands official Gibbs who took charge of last week’s stalemate at Burton.
The FA could fine Vale if their investigation concludes the club have a charge to answer.
An FA spokesman explained: “The investigation is only at a preliminary stage and the FA have asked both clubs to give their observations.”
