Gillingham apologise to Townsend after alleged racist abuse

The Exiles won 2-0 in Kent on Tuesday evening but, like last season when Omar Bogle was the target, the success has been overshadowed by behaviour from the stands.

The Gills have issued a statement after Antigua and Barbuda goalkeeper Townsend was targeted in the second half of the game.

“Gillingham FC is disappointed to have to express its disgust at allegations of racial abuse towards the Newport goalkeeper, Nick Townsend, during the 55th minute of the game,” read a statement.

“Working with the Kent Police, Mr Townsend and our in-house safety team, we have been able to identify the person who is alleged to have shouted the racial abuse. If proven, this person will receive a ban from MEMS Priestfield Stadium.

“As a club we apologise to Mr Townsend and strongly condemn all forms of discrimination. It will not be tolerated at Gillingham FC.”

ABUSED: Newport County goalkeeper Nick Townsend (Image: Kian Abdullah/Huw Evans Agency)

The 29-year-old from the West Midlands made a number of good saves to help secure the spoils for the Exiles in the face of second-half pressure.

"Newport County strongly condemns any forms of racism, prejudice or discrimination and has a zero-tolerance policy towards incidence of such nature," read an Exiles statement.

"Townsend has the full backing of everyone at the football club and we are in constant dialogue with the player, ensuring he has all the support he needs.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to both Kent Police and Gillingham Football Club for their swift response at the end of the game. 

"Newport County will continue to work with the relevant authorities on this matter."

Last season County won 2-0 in Kent but striker Omar Bogle was the victim of racist abuse when celebrating the first of his two penalties.

A spectator from the home section made a monkey gesture and the incident was reported by the referee.

“Emotionally, it didn’t really hit me until after the game. We were on the way back down on the coach and I was just sat down on my phone," said Bogle to the EFL earlier this month as part of the Together Against Racism campaign.

"I didn’t cry but I had the feeling of shedding a tear. I knew it could make me angry or frustrated but to make me emotional in that sense was a bit of a surprise to me.”

The fan, who has learning difficulties, was given a lifetime ban by Gillingham, charged with a racially aggravated public order offence and given 40 hours of community service.