Nantwich Town FC's Northern Premier League West fixture against Darlaston was abandoned in the 71st minute on Saturday 21 March, following an alleged racist incident involving a member of the crowd.

The Dabbers were leading 3-1 at the time when a Darlaston player was reportedly subjected to an alleged racist comment from the stands, prompting an immediate halt to proceedings.

Match officials were informed and play was suspended for a prolonged period while the situation was dealt with.

During this time, one individual was identified and ejected from the stadium.

Despite the action taken, Darlaston's players collectively decided they were unable to continue the match, resulting in its abandonment.

Nantwich Town later issued a statement confirming the sequence of events and reiterating the club's stance.

Nantwich Town were leading 3-1 when a Darlaston player was reportedly subjected to an alleged racist comment from the stands, prompting an immediate halt to proceedings (Photo: Jonathan White).

The South Cheshire club said: "Following an alleged inappropriate comment from a member of the crowd towards a Darlaston player and following a prolonged stoppage, whereby a member of the crowd was ejected from the stadium, the Darlaston players collectively felt they were unable to continue the game the game which Nantwich were leading 3-1.

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"Whilst this is bitterly disappointing for all concerned, the club has zero tolerance towards any inappropriate behaviour and comments and fully supports and respects Darlaston's decision.

"The club has followed the full and correct processes in dealing with this and will await further instruction from the League following the referee's report and we will provide further updates following this."

Darlaston, currently sat in 21st place, eight points from safety, also issued a statement after the match.

The West Midlands club said: "Following an alleged inappropriate comment made by a spectator towards one of our players, and after a prolonged stoppage during which the individual concerned was removed from the stadium, our players collectively took the decision that they were unable to continue the fixture.

"While this is a disappointing outcome for all involved, Darlaston Town maintains a zero-tolerance stance towards any form of inappropriate behaviour or language.

"The welfare and wellbeing of our players will always remain our priority.

"The club will continue to support the relevant processes and will await further guidance from the League following the referee's report. We will provide further updates in due course."

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