Football supporter banned for homophobic comment

Hashtag United has banned one of its own supporters for two seasons for making an alleged homophobic comment.

The comment was said to be made during an away game against Dulwich Hamlet FC in the FA Trophy on 26 October.

Following an investigation, Hashtag United said it had banned the supporter from all of the club’s games and said they must complete an LGBTQIA+ awareness course before a return can be considered.

"Football is a sport that should be enjoyed by all, free from all forms of discrimination," the club said in a statement.

Hashtag, which was set up by YouTuber Spencer Owen in 2016, won the FA Trophy first-round tie 5-4 on penalties after the game ended 1-1.

After the match, Hashtag United said it was informed by staff members of Dulwich Hamlet FC about the alleged comment.

"The club takes all allegations of this nature extremely seriously," Hashtag United said in a statement, adding that it had "conducted a thorough and fair investigation".

"After careful consideration of all the evidence available to us, we believe this comment was made and as such we have taken appropriate action.

"Having identified the perpetrator, and having sought advice from both the league and an external specialist, the individual has today been served with a two-season ban from all Hashtag United men's, women's and junior fixtures."

Hashtag United, who play in the Isthmian League Premier Division, have been drawn at home to Brackley Town of National League North in the second round of the FA Trophy.

The FA said spectator issues did not fall under its jurisdiction, but it said it supported the action taken by the club.

The BBC has approached Dulwich Hamlet FC for comment.

Dulwich Hamlet FC said in a previous statement that it had worked hard to ensure that its ground, Champion Hill, "is a place where everyone can feel safe and have the confidence to report any behaviour knowing that it will be acted on swiftly".

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