Club accepts FA investigation into abandoned match

HINCKLEY AFC has accepted the punishment handed down from Leicestershire FA following a match abandonment against Coventry Copsewood in April.

The Midland Football League match descended into chaos with referee Paul Hands showing four red cards in the space of 32 minutes either side of half-time.

The match was then abandoned after Hinckley captain Luke Richards appeared to thrust his head towards the official.

After an investigation by the FA, which hinged around the cause of abandonment, Richard’s actions were seen as the primary motive, and he was banned from all footballing activities for 182 days and fined.

The club was also fined £160 for failing to ensure that players and supporters conducted themselves in an orderly fashion, and an additional £50 for a historic case of failing to ensure spectators conducted themselves in an orderly fashion.

The club stated that as part of internal investigations, including reports and video footage, that they received no complaints from supporters, staff or members of the public about the rulings.

A statement on their website read: “The board’s investigation has been frank and thorough in light of much speculation, and while certain key events have been resoundingly unproven, other elements remind us that future behaviour, both on and off the pitch, must reflect the image and standing of our club.

“As a club, it is important that we again reiterate the role that everyone plays in ensuring our club is held in the highest possible regard, whether that is board of directors, playing and coaching staff or supporters, something that we all are in essence.

“As a result of the investigation, we remind everyone of their responsibility to behave well and to create a positive atmosphere around the ground on a matchday, be it home or away.

“This includes adhering to the rules and regulations as set out by Hinckley AFC and those that govern the sport nationwide.

“No further comment on these matters will be forthcoming from Hinckley AFC. We now look forward to the new season with great optimism, with Carl Abbott already making great strides in retaining many of last season’s cup winning squad.”