Falkirk launch probe after supporters hurled racist abuse at their own player
● Club appeal for fans’ help following treatment of Lewis at cup derby defeat
Falkirk are investigating reports of racist abuse directed towards Dennon Lewis by their own supporters.
The Ladbrokes Championship club have appealed for information from fans following Saturday’s William Hill Scottish Cup defeat by Stenhousemuir.
Former Watford player Lewis, 21, moved to Falkirk in the summer.
A club statement read: “Falkirk FC is extremely disappointed to learn of racist abuse directed at Dennon Lewis by its own supporters during Saturday’s match against Stenhousemuir.
“We wholeheartedly condemn the abuse received by Dennon and will work to identify those responsible.
“The individuals in question were in the Main Stand of Ochilview Park on Saturday and anyone with any information
FALKIRK FC STATEMENT is urged to contact the club on 01324 624121 in strictest confidence. Racist abuse towards anyone is simply unacceptable and will absolutely not be tolerated.”
The derby defeat was the latest blow to hit Falkirk during a season which has seen them prop up the Championship and replace Paul Hartley with Ray Mckinnon as manager early in the campaign.
The statement added: “Further to this, there has been a growing number of unacceptable incidents of abuse by Falkirk fans towards members of staff and players at our club.
“We have a duty of care towards our players and staff and while we do appreciate that this season has fallen well below where we all hoped we would be, it is entirely unacceptable for supporters to abuse players and staff. Many of these extremely personal attacks on individuals have been both verbal and online.
“The vast majority of Falkirk supporters have been exemplary in their behaviour and following of the team throughout what has to date been a difficult season for us all. It is in times like these we must all pull together and continue to support Ray and his team in climbing the Championship.”
“While we do appreciate that this season has fallen well below where we all hoped we would be, it is entirely unacceptable for supporters to abuse players and staff. The attacks have been both verbal and online”