Teens arrested for 'misogynistic abuse' of referee Rebecca Welch

Welch took charge of the Championship match between Birmingham and Sheffield Wednesday Photo: Getty Images/Morgan Harlow

Two football fans were arrested for alleged misogyny towards referee Rebecca Welch during Birmingham's home match with Sheffield Wednesday.

Birmingham won the league match 2-1 — Wayne Rooney's first win as manager — but it was overshadowed news about arrests.

“Today we arrested two boys for making misogynistic shouts at a female referee during a Birmingham City home match at St Andrews,” West Midlands Police said in a statement.

“Our Officers have heard shouts to the official and quickly arrested the two, both 17.

“They are currently in custody on suspicion of public order offenses while we investigate. We do not tolerate any form of hate and it is important that hate crimes are reported to us.

“Today is White Ribbon Day, which is the beginning of a 16-day campaign. The focus is on what everyone, especially men and boys, can do to change the behaviors and cultures that lead to abuse and violence against women and girls.”

Welch made history in January when she became the first woman. to officiate a Championship match after she took charge of Birmingham's match with Preston.

The club warned fans on Friday about their behavior towards match officials.

A statement sent out ahead of the Sheffield Wednesday match highlighted how Welch faced «sexist and misogynistic» chants during the match against Preston.

“Sky Bet Championship match on Saturday 25 November kick-off at 3 p.m., with Rebecca Welch officiating. «Unfortunately, the last time she refereed at St Andrews, the club received several reports of sexist and misogynistic abuse directed at an official,» Birmingham said.

“This is unacceptable and anyone caught engaging in this behavior will be punished.” stewards will be asked to leave their seat.

“In addition, according to the club's conduct matrix, obscene and offensive language carries a potential ban of up to four matches, while discriminatory and hate speech is punishable by a fine. maximum ban of five years.»

After the match, a statement from Birmingham read: «Ahead of Saturday's Sky Bet Championship match with Sheffield Wednesday, a statement was published on BCFC.com urging fans to be respectful of officials match.

“The football club is therefore deeply disappointed that two fans were overheard by West Midlands police making misogynistic shouts at the referee on Saturday and are now in custody on suspicion of public order offences.

“The City of Birmingham strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and will support the police in their investigations.”