Newport could face FA charge over alleged homophobic chants

Newport manager Hayden Mullins said he had not heard any discriminatory language but condemned the alleged homophobic chants that halted the FA Cup first‑round tie against Walsall for five minutes on Saturday at Newport County's Rodney Parade ground, prompting a brief suspension of play.

The Football Association and South Wales Police could be asked to investigate the alleged chants. Newport County could still face an FA charge as the behaviour breaches FA rules and is classed as a hate crime. The photograph accompanying the report was taken by Huw Evans of Picture Agency.

Referee Robert Massey‑Ellis spoke to the managers and captains of both teams. He also gestured towards the home crowd close to the dugouts.

Mullins said, “I think it was homophobic stuff that was heard in the crowd, which is not on. We don’t condone it.” He added that such behaviour has no place in football.

He explained that the incident was reported to stewards and then to either the linesman or fourth official. Mullins praised the referee for stopping play, dealing with the issue thoroughly and ensuring the right procedures were in place.