Two football fans have been arrested for alleged misogynistic chanting towards referee Rebecca Welch during Birmingham City’s home match with Sheffield Wednesday.
West Midlands Police confirmed that two 17-year-olds had been detained “on suspicion of a public order offence”.
Birmingham said they were “deeply disappointed” after warning fans about their behaviour ahead of the game.
A club statement issued ahead of the Sheffield Wednesday fixture said that Welch had faced “sexist and misogynistic” chants during her previous match at St Andrew’s against Preston.
Welch became the first woman to referee a men’s Championship match when she took charge of that game on January 21.
Rebecca Welch made history when she oversaw a Championship game earlier this year (Getty Images)
Birmingham said they would support the police with their enquiries after Saturday’s alleged incident.
A club statement read: “Prior to Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture with Sheffield Wednesday, a statement was issued on BCFC.com encouraging supporters to be respectful towards the match officials.
“The football club are, therefore, deeply disappointed that two supporters were overheard by West Midlands Police officers engaging in misogynistic chanting towards Saturday’s referee and are currently in custody on suspicion of a public order offence.
“Birmingham City strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and will support the police with their enquiries.”
West Midlands Police said: “We have arrested two boys for misogynistic chanting at the female referee during Birmingham City’s home game at St Andrew’s today.
“Our officers heard the chants being directed at the official and acted quickly to arrest the two, who are both 17. They are currently in custody on suspicion of a public order offence as we carry out enquiries.
“We don’t tolerate any form of hate and it is important hate crime is reported to us.
“Today is White Ribbon Day which is the start of a 16-day long campaign. It focuses on everyone, especially men and boys on what they can do to change the behaviour and culture that leads to abuse and violence against women and girls.”
Birmingham won the fixture 2-1, earning new manager Wayne Rooney his first victory in charge of the club.
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(Photo: Getty Images)