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Match abandoned after 'sexist' abuse of referee

The match was abandoned after the referee halted play due to sexist abuse; both clubs condemned the incident and an investigation is underway.

  • On Saturday, AFC Rushden & Diamonds’ away game at Coventry Sphinx was abandoned after sexist abuse was allegedly aimed at the female match referee; both clubs play in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division.
  • Late in the first half the match was halted after a sexist remark was heard, the referee stopped the match while the individual was removed but later said she did not feel comfortable continuing.
  • Sandy stated after the match, `I obviously condemn what's happened today; there's no place for it in football and I feel really sorry for her that it has actually happened`, and Coventry Sphinx said it will investigate and respond to league and FA queries.
  • At half-time the referee told the teams she could not continue, so the match was called off and AFC Rushden & Diamonds urged supporters with information to come forward; the BBC has contacted the Football Association and Coventry Sphinx for comment.
  • AFC Rushden & Diamonds said discriminatory language has no place in the club and a spokesperson warned they would take the strongest action if linked, reporting the matter to relevant authorities including the league and the Football Association .
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BBC News broke the news in United Kingdom on Saturday, November 15, 2025.
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