How did the clubs respond to the incident involving the AFC Rushden & Diamonds vs Coventry Sphinx match?

Both clubs condemned the incident, stating that discriminatory language or actions have no place in their clubs or the wider football community. They promised to take the strongest possible action if the culprit was found to be connected to either club.

Home / Sports / Sexist Abuse Halts Non-League Match, Referee Walks Out

Sexist Abuse Halts Non-League Match, Referee Walks Out

Q: What happened at the AFC Rushden & Diamonds vs Coventry Sphinx match?

The match was abandoned at half-time after a sexist comment was allegedly made towards the female referee, who then refused to continue the game.

Q: What is the level of football where the AFC Rushden & Diamonds vs Coventry Sphinx match took place?

The match was played in the eighth tier of English football, the Northern Premier League Midlands Division.

16 Nov

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Summary

Sexist comment made towards female referee
Match abandoned at half-time, referee refused to continue
Clubs condemn incident, promise strongest action if culprit found

Sexist Abuse Halts Non-League Match, Referee Walks Out

On November 12th, 2025, a non-league football match between AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Coventry Sphinx was abandoned at half-time after a sexist comment was allegedly made towards the female match official.

According to the clubs, the incident occurred towards the end of the first half, and attempts to identify the individual responsible were unsuccessful. AFC Rushden & Diamonds stated that they are "deeply concerned and disappointed" by the behavior and that discriminatory language or actions have "absolutely no place" within their club or the wider football community.

The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities, and both clubs have pledged to fully support and cooperate with any investigations that follow. AFC Rushden & Diamonds also said that if the individual responsible is found to be connected to their club, they will take the "strongest possible action" in line with their policies and values.

Coventry Sphinx echoed these sentiments, stating that discriminatory language or actions have no place at their club or in any walk of life. The club added that they will undertake an investigation into the incident and respond to any queries received from the league and the FA.

The Diamonds' first-team manager, Elliot Sandy, condemned the incident, saying there is "no place for it in football" and that he feels "really sorry" for the referee that this happened.

Both AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Coventry Sphinx play in the eighth tier of English football, the Northern Premier League Midlands Division.

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