Newcastle vs Sunderland derby temporarily canceled due to racism allegations
Referee Anthony Taylor addressed both the Newcastle United and Sunderland benches following reports of discriminatory abuse. (Image: Getty Images)
The Premier League clash between Newcastle United and Sunderland has been suspended following reports of discriminatory abuse. The incident occurred just five minutes into the second half, and manager Anthony Taylor called both captains to the dugout to discuss the matter with their respective benches.
Play was delayed while Sven Botman was adjudged to have been caught in a high boot. Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka brought the incident to the attention of the referee and immediately claimed that hateful words had been directed at Lutsharel Hertruida.
In a statement, the Premier League said: “Today’s match between Newcastle United and Sunderland was suspended midway through the second half following reports of racist abuse directed at Sunderland’s Lutcharel Giartruida by a member of the crowd.
“This is in line with the Premier League’s on-field anti-discrimination protocols. The incident at St James’s Park will now be thoroughly investigated.”
“We offer our full support to our players and both clubs. Racism has no place in our game or in our society. We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums are inclusive and welcoming environments for everyone.”
Newcastle released the following statement in response to the incident: “We are aware of reports that a visiting player was racially abusive towards someone in the crowd during the Premier League game against Sunderland.
“Our position is clear: We do not tolerate discrimination in any form. We will work with authorities to thoroughly investigate and ensure individuals are identified and held accountable.”
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read more: Newcastle and Sunderland fans clash in violent scenes minutes before kick-offread more: Virgil van Dijk reveals frustration with Liverpool team-mates: ‘It’s just too much’
There were scenes of violence before kick-off, with fans clashing as bottles and objects were thrown at Sunderland’s team bus as it approached St James’ Park.
Sunderland supporters had to be escorted out as they played against their rivals for the first time since 2012.
Witnesses claimed that a small number of Sunderland fans who were traveling broke away from the police escort and entered the stadium, joining a large group of home fans.
This is said to have sparked a violent confrontation, with the Daily Mail claiming that one person was given CPR before being taken away.
The game at St James’s Park was a tense encounter with the Magpies looking to bounce back from their defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League in midweek.
Anthony Taylor speaks with Newcastle and Sunderland staff representatives (Image: Getty Images)
The hosts got off to a perfect start as Anthony Gordon exploited a mistake at the back by the visitors, but Sunderland equalized through Kemsudine Talby just after stoppage time.
After the equalizing goal, Sunderland put heavy pressure on the hosts but almost regained the lead through Malik Thiau’s header. However, it was chalked off as a violation.
The Black Cats had a late goal from Brian Brobbey after some great work from Enzo Le Fee to move Sunderland within two points of their north-east rivals.
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