York’s friendly with Salford abandoned following alleged racist abuse

North Yorkshire Police are appealing for witnesses after York’s home pre-season friendly against Salford was abandoned after some of the visitors’ players were allegedly subjected to racial abuse.

Salford boss Karl Robinson led his players off the pitch at the LNER Community Stadium in the closing stages with the score level at 3-3 after being informed his players had been targeted.

National League side York confirmed they are working closely with North Yorkshire Police in their investigation.

Police said a 23-year-old was arrested in connection with the incident and appealed for witnesses to get in touch.

They said the incident followed a disturbance on the pitch towards the end of the game.

A club statement read: “York City Football Club are horrified to learn of allegations of racial abuse aimed at Salford City players in this evening’s pre-season match.

“Both clubs, alongside the match officials, decided to take both teams off the pitch at that time.

“York City condemns racism in all forms. We stand with Salford in condemning this behavior in the strongest possible terms.

“The club is now working with North Yorkshire Police to investigate the allegations.

“We would like to thank Salford City for their cooperation in what has been a deeply distressing evening.”

Sky Bet League Two side Salford said in a statement: “The matter was swiftly reported to authorities and Salford’s team was taken off the pitch by manager Karl Robinson.

“The incident is now being investigated by both York City and local police.

“Salford City condemns racism in all forms, will always protect and defend its players and staff from any form of behaviour of this kind, and condemns this evening’s behaviour in the strongest possible terms.

“We would like to thank York City for its swift response to this incident.”