Investigation underway after ‘racist chanting’ at Kent Senior Trophy Final between Punjab United and Whitstable Town at Gallagher Stadium in Maidstone

An investigation is underway after a football club says “racist chanting” was directed towards its supporters as fans clashed at a Kent cup final.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place during the Kent Senior Trophy Final between Whitstable Town and Punjab United on Sunday, where almost 1,500 people were in attendance.

Bosses at Punjab United raised issues in a public statement after the Gravesend-based club’s 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Oystermen during the match held at Maidstone United’s Gallagher Stadium.

The final was organised by the Kent FA, which says it is working with the two clubs, Kent Police, officials from Maidstone United and the event’s security staff.

Ugly scenes unfolded at the end of the match, with Punjab United saying a large group of opposition supporters had entered the stand where their fans were gathered, leading to “repeated verbal abuse, including chanting of a racist nature”.

Drinks were reportedly thrown towards the Punjab United fans, which allegedly escalated into physical confrontations.

Punjab United say several fans have indicated they will no longer attend matches, and a number of younger attendees were visibly distressed by what they witnessed.

In a statement, the club said it will be raising these matters formally with the relevant authorities, including the police.

It added: “As a community-focused club committed to inclusivity and accessibility within football, we feel deeply let down by the events of the day.

“We now seek clarity from the organisers regarding the measures in place on the day and what actions will be taken in response to the incidents reported.

“It is vital that appropriate steps are taken to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of all supporters at