Rochdale AFC have strongly condemned sexist abuse directed at an away fan from their own supporters.
Witnesses say ‘a large group’ of male Dale fans directed misogynistic abuse ‘towards a girl on the front row of the Oldham home stand’ during Saturday’s derby fixture.
The witness added: “As a fellow female football fan we shouldn’t have to be subjected to this in 2022.”
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In the aftermath of the game, both the club and chairman Simon Gauge have condemned the abuse.
Writing on Twitter, Mr Gauge said: “I apologise sincerely on behalf of the club to the supporter that was subject to the abuse and to our own supporters who were rightly offended by the chants.
“There is no place at our club for this behaviour.”
A statement from the club added: “We're absolutely disgusted to hear this happened today.
“This behaviour has no place in football or in society, & we're extremely disappointed that some of our fans have acted in this manner.
“To those involved, this behaviour will not be tolerated. Enough is enough!”
The Manchester Evening News understands that the incident has re-doubled the club’s commitment to the Her Game Too movement, which it is a partner organisation.
“We are proud to be [a partner],” a Dale spokesperson added. “We operate a zero-tolerance approach — that;s why we called it out as soon as possible and publicly to send a message.
“It shows how important — and why the movement is needed.”
Her Game Too seeks to fight sexism within football both in stadiums and online.
