AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after racial abuse was directed towards a player during Salisbury FC's FA Trophy tie at the Ray Mac on Saturday.

The incident, both clubs have confirmed, took place in the final stages of the tie against Hayes & Yeading United FC after Salisbury had netted a 94th-minute winner to take the game to 4-3.

Hayes' representatives and players say they were "disgusted" to hear the abuse which was directed at Elliott Buchanan, as the striker was receiving treatment on the pitch.

Following the match, Salisbury FC confirmed it would carry out an internal investigation, adding that they are taking the matter "extremely seriously".

Wiltshire Police and the Football Association (FA) have been contacted by the clubs and will be carrying out their own investigation in due course.

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A statement from Hayes & Yeading United FC read: "Towards the end of the enthralling FA Trophy match between Salisbury and Hayes & Yeading United, the directors, committee and bench were disgusted to hear racist abuse directed at striker Elliott Buchanan, who was receiving treatment on the pitch at the time.

"There is absolutely no place anywhere for abuse of this nature, and any one of our supporters’ at the match would have evidenced the reaction of the directors' area and our bench at the time."

The club added:"After discussions by the match officials with both managers, and the players, all agreed to complete the game.

"A full report of the incident has been made by the referee, as well as managers, players and officials of both clubs.

"The Football Association has also been contacted, and will be making their own full investigation – which will be fully supported by Hayes & Yeading United FC."

A statement from Salisbury FC added: "Towards the end of the FA Trophy match on Saturday there was an incident involving the alleged use of racist language directed towards one of the Hayes & Yeading United players.

"Salisbury FC take this matter extremely seriously and has launched an investigation into establishing the facts and if it is found that one of our supporters did use racist language they will be subject to action in accordance with the club and FA rules and guidelines.

"Salisbury FC will issue a further statement once all the facts have been determined."

The club added: "Salisbury FC is fully committed to doing all it can to assist in the eradication of the use of any racist, sexist or homophobic language."

The club has asked that anyone who has information that will assist their inquiries is asked to contact Jim Ayres at the club on 01722 776655 or admin@salisburyfc.co.uk.