Barnsley charged by FA after ‘discriminatory’ chant in match with Bristol Rovers

Barnsley have been charged by the Football Association after it was alleged that their supporters used discriminatory language towards a female Bristol Rovers staff member.

The FA say that the Yorkshire club failed to ensure their fans 'controlled themselves in an orderly fashion' in an event that happened in the 50th minute of the League One match in mid-August.

The offence refers to the use of discriminatory language related to gender.

Barnsley have until Thursday, September 29, to respond to the charge and how they will plea.

A statement from the FA read: “Barnsley FC has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E20 that allegedly took place during the 50th minute of its EFL League One game against Bristol Rovers on Tuesday 16 August 2022.

“It is alleged that Barnsley FC failed to ensure its spectators, and all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers, conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from using improper and/or abusive and/or insulting words which included a reference, whether express or implied, to gender. Barnsley FC has until Thursday 29 September 2022 to respond.”

Two days after the alleged act, Barnsley issued a statement condemning the behaviour and said they prided themselves on ‘being an inclusive, family environment’.

They made contact with Rovers, Her Game Too as well as the EFL regarding the matter whilst commencing an internal investigation.

They said: “Barnsley Football Club is disappointed to learn that during Tuesday evening’s Sky Bet League One fixture against Bristol Rovers, a section of supporters participated in a chant of a discriminatory and derogatory nature.

Rovers' response at the time was: "Bristol Rovers does not condone this behaviour and is against derogatory language used towards any member of our staff, or anyone for that matter.

“Football is a game for everyone and it is our responsibility to help tackle sexism and champion the inclusion of women in sport."