Rebecca Welch: Police arrest two teenagers at Birmingham after referee targeted by misogynistic chanting

Rebecca Welch targeted by chants during Birmingham's win over Sheffield Wednesday; official became fist woman to referee a Championship match earlier this year; West Midlands Police: «We don't tolerate any form of hate and it is important hate crime is reported to us.»

Saturday 25 November 2023 21:05, UK

West Midlands Police have confirmed that two arrests were made for misogynistic chanting at match referee Rebecca Welch during Birmingham City's game with Sheffield Wednesday.

The match saw Wayne Rooney collected his first win as Birmingham manager after a 2-1 comeback victory against the Sky Bet Championship's bottom club at St Andrew's.

It was overshadowed by news of two 17-year-olds being arrested for alleged chants towards Welch, who made history in January when she became the first woman to officiate a Championship match after she took charge of Birmingham's clash with Preston.

West Midlands Police said in a statment: «We have arrested two boys for misogynistic chanting at the female referee during Birmingham City's home game at St Andrew's today (Nov 25).

»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.»

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Birmingham City had issued guidance to supporters ahead of the game in an