Halesowen Town sorry for 'abusive comments' at player

The club has apologised for alleged abuse aimed at James Beresford, who featured in Sutton Coldfield Town's 2-0 victory at the Old Hawne Lane ground.

Beresford was purportedly subject to the comments during Monday's game after picking up an injury following a late tackle from Halesowen captain Daniel Bragoli, who received a red card.

Club president Colin Brookes, who is the father of chairman Karen Brookes, said: "Things like this happen on occasion and hopefully the supporter will see the error of his ways.

"If we can identify who it was, we would like to speak to the person responsible.

"We don't want to lose fans, we want to gain them – but you have to conduct yourself in the right manner."

A club statement, posted on Tuesday, read: "Halesowen Town Football Club have been notified of claims of abusive comments made against an opposition player during yesterday's 2-0 defeat against Sutton Coldfield Town.

​"The comments were allegedly made following Daniel Bragoli's red card and were aimed at the injured player, James Beresford.

​"The club would like to apologise to James and everyone at Sutton Coldfield Town and will be investigating this matter further, taking relevant action where necessary."

Sutton Coldfield Town's official Twitter account responded to the statement, posting: "Emotions do occasionally get the better of some supporters.

"Your player personally apologised to @Bezza_95 which was accepted and appreciated."

Beresford himself Tweeted: "Thank you for your apology, however majority of your fans were extremely friendly and I personally have taken no offence (."