[UK] Daggers release statement on alleged racist incident
Monday 14 Jan 2013
Dagenham & Redbridge have released the following statement after an alleged racist incident occurred during the club's “Daggers Against Racism Family Fun Day” dedicated fixture against Rochdale on Saturday (12 January).
"Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club wishes to confirm that the case of actual or alleged racist abuse aimed at our defender Gavin Hoyte by an opponent player has been reported to police in the past 24 hours.
"Following a complaint made by Gavin to referee Steve Rushton during Saturday's 2-1 npower League Two victory over Rochdale, the incident has now been reported to the Metropolitan Police for them to investigate.
"Mr Rushton has confirmed to the Club that he has also reported the matter to The Football Association.
"The game against Rochdale was championed as a “Daggers Against Racism Family Fun Day” and it is deeply disappointing that this incident has tarnished the day.
"The Club will fully support Gavin Hoyte during the investigation and has complete faith in his honesty and integrity.
"Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club wish to reiterate that they have a zero tolerance stance on racism.
"No further statements will be made by the Club on this incident until all investigations have been completed by the appropriate authorities."
Rochdale have also issued a statement on the matter:
"Rochdale Football Club have today been contacted by Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club regarding an alleged racist comment made by a Rochdale player towards their player Gavin Hoyte during yesterday’s League Two encounter.
"Both Rochdale Football Club and Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club enjoy an excellent relationship and Rochdale are grateful to Dagenham & Redbridge for contacting us on this matter.
"We are aware that the matter has been reported to the Metropolitan Police and The Football Association and we will fully co-operate with both authorities on this matter as well as investigating it internally.
"Rochdale Football Club has a zero tolerance against racism and fully supported the “Daggers Against Racism Family Fun Day”, as well as our on-going support of the “Kick Racism Out of Football Campaign”, where as a club our players have worn the anti-racism t-shirts on at least three occasions this season, including on Saturday.
"We also share the disappointment of our friends at Dagenham & Redbridge that such an accusation has occurred on a day when both clubs were supporting an anti-racism day.
"Rochdale Football Club reiterates its commitment to fully co-operating with The Football Association and the Metropolitan Police and will make no further comment at this time."
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Neil Taylor
“There is always the opportunity to push onwards and upwards. It’s all about perseverance, and when the opportunity comes, continuing to apply yourself.”
Neil Taylor, Swansea City and Wales