A football club in south Essex has issued a statement after an incident of alleged racist abuse towards an opposition coach.
Brentwood Town first-team attacking coach Alex Akrofi was targeted during the match against Billericay Town in the Isthmian League Play-off Final.
The abuse occurred late in extra time from a spectator positioned behind the dugouts.
Billericay Town has now issued a statement which said: "Billericay Town FC acknowledges the seriousness of the allegation reported during yesterday’s Isthmian League Play-off Final.
"We maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards racism and all forms of discrimination. Any such behaviour is wholly unacceptable and will always be treated with the utmost seriousness.
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"During the incident, a spectator was identified and, in line with established procedures, was removed from the stadium and the matter was referred to the police.
"We understand that due process is now ongoing.
"As a club, we believe it is essential that matters of this nature are handled with care and responsibility, and that all relevant facts are fully established before any conclusions are drawn.
"While this process is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further. We ask that all individuals involved are treated with respect."
It follows a statement from Brentwood Town which said: "Brentwood Town said: "We are appalled to report that our First-Team Coach, Alex Akrofi, was subjected to racist abuse during yesterday’s Isthmian League Play-off Final.
"This behaviour is completely abhorrent and has no place in football or in society.
"As a club, we strongly condemn all forms of discrimination. It is deeply disappointing and frankly incomprehensible that in 2026, individuals still resort to such hate speech in an attempt to demean others.
"Football is a game built on unity, respect, and inclusion, and incidents like this undermine those values entirely."
Brentwood Town have offered their full support to Mr Akrofi and are backing any action he chooses to take.
The club has reaffirmed its commitment to challenging racism in football.
Billericay Town beat Brentwood 2-1 in the play-off final yesterday, clinching promotion to National League South.
An Essex Police spokesperson said: "Officers investigating a report of racist abuse at the end of a football match in Billericay are appealing for witnesses to contact them.
"It follows an incident at the play-off match between Billericay Town FC and Brentwood Town FC at New Lodge in Blunts Wall Road on Monday 4 May.
"Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident, has any information or footage to contact us.
"Please quote incident 42/69548/26.
"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.
"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our online reporting services.
"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."
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