Gardaí probe incident that marred Kerry FC v Longford Town clash

An Garda Síochána has said that an investigation is underway into a public order incident that occurred during the SSE Airtricity Men's First Division fixture between Kerry FC and Longford Town at Tralee's Mounthawk Park on Friday night.

The 0-0 draw was marred by a post-match altercation involving players from both teams which followed an alleged racist remark made towards one of Kerry's players.

In his post-match interview, Kerry manager Billy Dennehy had said that "there was an unacceptable comment" directed towards one of his players and that the club would "go through all the proper channels" and "protect our player".

In a subsequent statement on Saturday, the club said: "Kerry Football Club is aware of an alleged 'racial' remark directed at one of our players during last night's SSE Airtricity Men's First Division game against Longford Town.

"The club continues to work with the FAI and the League of Ireland to kick 'racism' out of the game.

"Kerry FC stands with the player affected and he is receiving all support available to him at this time.

"We condemn discrimination in football and will not tolerate any form of hate towards any of our players or staff.

"Mounthawk Park and Kerry FC is a community where all people are welcome regardless of race, ethnicity, and other diverse backgrounds.

"The matter has been referred to An Garda Siochana. Kerry FC will be making no further comment on the matter at this time as investigations are ongoing."

In a statement to RTÉ Sport, An Garda Síochána said that the matter was being investigated.

"Gardaí in Tralee are investigating all the circumstances of a public order incident that occurred at a sports ground on Friday evening, 8th September 2023. Investigations are ongoing at this time.

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