Cardiff City boss Brian Barry-Murphy has praised his club’s swift action after allegations of racist abuse during our recent visit to the Welsh capital.
The Imps’ 2-0 victory over the Bluebirds last weekend was overshadowed by reports that City captain Tendayi Darikwa was the target of racist comments from a supporter inside the stadium. Michael Skubala revealed after the match that there had been “allegations of racist comments” directed towards the defender, prompting an investigation by the home club.
Cardiff responded quickly, issuing a strong statement condemning the incident and reiterating their stance on discrimination. The club said they were “disgusted” by the “repugnant behaviour” and emphasised their “zero-tolerance approach to racism and all forms of discrimination”.
Cardiff respond to allegations
Speaking after the incident, Barry-Murphy said he was pleased with the firm response from his club and the action taken since the allegation was raised.
“I was very pleased with the statement that we put out. It was so strong in the word,” he said. “Rather than just condemn it and say something’s going to happen, to see something actually happen is very important from my point of view.”
Cardiff have since confirmed that an individual has turned themselves in to the club, with the matter now in the hands of the police. Barry-Murphy explained why the issue resonates strongly with him personally.
“My wife is black, my children are mixed race. So it’s something that is very much at the front of my mind.
“We have so many black and mixed race players in our academy and in our team and it’s not acceptable to see it anywhere in society or in any football stadium.
“And the fact that it’s a player from another team doesn’t mean that we can accept it or tolerate it. I’m really pleased that the club are going to deal with it in the strongest possible manner and that the player is OK.”
The incident occurred during Lincoln’s win in the Welsh capital, a result which lifted us above Cardiff and into top spot in League One. The match itself was briefly halted for around four minutes while referee Tom Reeves spoke to both benches after Rob Street had given the Imps the lead.
Call for education and accountability
Barry-Murphy also said he hopes incidents such as this can be used to educate those responsible and prevent further issues in the future.
“Our supporters are incredible and for this to happen in our stadium I think is not reflective of them, but the person who did this obviously needs educating on the effects this can have on the person that he does it to and also the people who witness it.
“So many of our supporters are from different backgrounds, it’s one of the beauties of our club.”
It’s reassuring to see a club take such a strong stance. In this day and age, it is expected, but some clubs may pay lip service to the situation. Cardiff, as I understand, have been superb from the moment the allegation was made, and hearing BBM’s personal words strengthens their resolve.
Sadly, we’ll often see and hear stories like this – racist incidents, homophobic chanting and much more, but with every incident comes stronger condemnation and anger, which is only good for eradicating the behaviour in the future.