Female referee abandons game after sexist comments by spectator

A female referee was reduced to tears during a youth football match after the father of one of the players told her to ‘get her handbag and go home’, The Daily Mail reports.

21-year-old referee Shelby Davis halted the game between Wyvern Youths and Pirelli Pirates Youth in Southampton, after being targeted by sexist comments.

Pirelli Pirates are now being taken to task by the FA after the father of one of the players humiliated Davis.

The incident occurred when the Pirates were down 2-0.

‘I reported the matter to the Hampshire FA. I hope the dad will be disciplined’ said Davis, who has 7 years of experience as a referee.

‘I abandoned the match for sexist comments made towards myself by the dad.

‘I regarded it as being very offensive. They lasted about 30 seconds.

‘I was standing by the dug out at half time after I had blown the half time whistle.

‘The spectator was standing at the other side of the pitch.’

Manager of the Wyvern Youths, Ryan Andress was quoted as saying: ‘Shelby was in floods of tears. She was crying and everything. She took it to heart and could not take it any longer.

‘It was appalling, it was disgraceful. I am ashamed at what happened.

‘The dad shouted at her “you are a female you should not be involved in football – go and get your handbag and go home.”’

Len Lacey, founder and secretary of the Pirelli Pirates, said: ‘I know who the spectator is.’

‘We will be requesting a personal hearing. If this is the truth it is absolutely disgusting.’