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Footballer 'Froze' During Alleged Racist Abuse
14 Oct
Summary
- Player reported racist abuse to the match referee.
- Defendant denies racially aggravated behaviour in court.
- Abuse allegedly occurred during a throw-in at Anfield.
In Liverpool Magistrates' Court, footballer Antoine Semenyo recounted an alleged incident of racist abuse. While playing for Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15 last year, Semenyo stated he was subjected to racist slurs by defendant Mark Mogan, 47, as he prepared to take a throw-in. Semenyo described freezing in shock and distress at the abuse.
The prosecution presented evidence, including video clips, showing Mogan in an agitated state. Witnesses testified to Mogan shouting at Semenyo and throwing chewing gum, which struck the player. Semenyo reported the incident to the match referee, Anthony Taylor, resulting in Mogan being removed from the stadium at halftime.
Mogan, who denies racially aggravated behaviour, claimed he was responding to being called a "cripple" by Semenyo. The prosecution has contested Mogan's account, stating he lied during a police interview. Semenyo is expected to provide further evidence via videolink. The case continues.
