Police investigate alleged racial abuse of coach
Warren Muggleton/BBCPolice are investigating after a football coach was allegedly subjected to racist abuse by a spectator during a play-off final match.
Billericay Town beat neighbouring rivals Brentwood Town 2-1 in the Isthmian premier division play-off final on Monday following an extra-time winning goal.
Brentwood Town said a spectator positioned near the dugout directed "unacceptable and offensive language" at their first-team coach Alex Akrofi towards the end of extra time.
A Billericay spokesperson said the club had a "zero-tolerance" stance on racism and said the spectator was removed from their stadium at New Lodge.
"This behaviour is completely abhorrent and has no place in football or in society," said the Brentwood spokesperson.
"It is deeply disappointing and frankly incomprehensible that in 2026, individuals still resort to such hate speech in an attempt to demean others."
The club said it was lending its "unconditional" support to Akrofi.
In a statement, Billericay responded: "We maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards racism and all forms of discrimination.
"Any such behaviour is wholly unacceptable and will always be treated with the utmost seriousness."
Essex Police said: "Our inquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident, has any information or footage to contact us."
Monday's victory meant Billericay returned to the National League South division.
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