Grimsby Town condemn alleged sexist abuse towards referee in MK Dons draw

Grimsby Town have issued a strong response after reports of sexist abuse allegedly being directed at match official Kirsty Dowle during Saturday’s 2-2 League Two draw with MK Dons. In a statement published on the club’s website, the Mariners said they were “extremely disappointed” to receive the reports and stressed that discrimination would not be accepted at Blundell Park. “We are extremely disappointed to receive these reports and want to make it clear that the club operates a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination in all its forms,” the club said. Grimsby added that “such behaviour is unacceptable, contrary to the values of both the club and the game, and will not be tolerated.” The club’s comments come as teams across Lincolnshire and the wider game continue efforts to stamp out abuse and encourage respect towards officials at all levels of football.

This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.