PORT Vale could be hit by an FA fine after some of their fans were accused of racially abusing Burton defender Darren Moore during last week’s League Two stalemate at the Pirelli Stadium, writes Steve Shaw.
The FA launched an investigation after the alleged abuse was reported by match referee Phil Gibbs.
Vale chairman Bill Bratt responded by vowing to issue life bans to any supporters found guilty of “bigoted behaviour”.
“We’re deeply shocked and saddened by these reports, which brings the good name of Port Vale into disrepute,” he said.
“The club have always prided ourselves on the excellent work undertaken by the Valiants Against Racism initiative.
“Football has spent the last 30 years trying to attract families and ethnic minority groups into our grounds.
“That work must not be undone by a small and mindless minority.
“Any of our supporters who use racially-abusive language to any player or supporter will be apprehended and suffer an immediate life ban from Vale Park.”
“This kind of bigoted behaviour is not acceptable.”
The alleged racial abuse was reported by West Midlands referee Phil Gibbs who took charge of last week’s stalemate at Burton.
The FA could fine Vale if their investigation concludes the club have a charge to answer.
An FA spokesman explained: “The investigation is only at a preliminary stage and the FA have asked both clubs to give their observations.”
Vale defender Lee Collins is facing a race against time to be fit for Saturday’s League Two clash at Northampton.
The 22-year-old has been suffering from shin splints for at least a month and will not resume training until Thursday after coming off in Saturday’s 1-1 FA Cup draw at Dartford.
Striker Marc Richards is also a doubt after missing Saturday’s FA Cup draw with non-league Dartford because of a knee injury, but is still expected to line up at Sixfields.
Winger Rob Taylor could return to training later this week as he nears his recovery from a torn hamstring.
The replay with Dartford will take place at Vale Park on Tuesday, November 16 (7.45pm)
This is Stafordshire
