Gerry: Get Tough Over Racist Row

Jan 13 2008 By Scott Mcdermott

STRANRAER boss Gerry Britton has urged the SFA to hammer East Fife over the racist abuse suffered by his striker Gregory Tade.

The Frenchman was allegedly called a "black b*****d" by Kevin Fotheringham at the end of the match between the clubs on January 2.

The players clashed on the pitch and their feud continued as they went up the tunnel after East Fife's 2-1 win.

Bayview midfielder Fotheringham has strongly denied he racially abused Tade.

But Britton has revealed the linesman has mentioned racist comments in his match report and the Stair Park boss insists a number of East Fife players had racially abused Tade.

The former Celtic striker - named Irn-Bru's Third Division Manager of the Month last week - now hopes serious action will be taken by the SFA.

Britton said: "The linesman has said in his report he heard racist comments from East Fife players but couldn't identify who it was.

"We have put in statements from our players and hopefully they will be read.

"I've heard chants from the terracing but never experienced it between players.

"I was at Dunfermline when Dave Barnett accused players of racism but it was nonsense - it didn't happen. He just used it as an excuse to get away from the club.

"I've played with a lot of black players and my mate Brian McPhee has been abused by fans but I've never heard him say he has had it from another player and that's what is really disappointing.

"I hope something is done and it's not swept under the carpet. I don't want to blow it out of proportion but we must draw attention to the situation

"I know it was only a Third Division game but if kids see sportsmen they look up to doing it, that's how it starts."