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Wales Coach Wilkinson Denounces Online Abuse After Wrexham's Title Win

Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson condemns online abuse after Wrexham's historic Adran Premier title win, calling it 'imbecile behaviour.' The Adran Leagues and Wrexham AFC also denounce sexist comments and vow to ban offenders.

·3 min read
Wales boss Rhian Wilkinson speaks to the media

Wales boss Wilkinson condemns 'imbecile behaviour'

Rhian Wilkinson has been Wales boss since February 2024.

Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson has criticised the "imbecile behaviour" of some social media users following online abuse after Wrexham's Adran Premier triumph.

Wrexham secured the Welsh women's domestic title for the first time after defeating Cardiff City Women 4-1 last Sunday.

On Tuesday, the Adran Leagues issued a statement condemning the "sexist and misogynistic comments" made on social media in response to the game.

Former Canada international, 43, Wilkinson described the ongoing abuse as "heartbreaking."

"I was very sad and heartbroken for those women who made history and then had to deal with that kind of immaturity, insecurity and just imbecile behaviour really," she said.

"I think that that's what social media does, it gives a platform to people that, you know, don't need to speak. That is the nicest way I can put it."

The Adran Leagues expressed being "appalled" by the "comments that have arisen" following Wrexham's success.

"Sunday's game at the [Stok] Cae Ras was a magnificent and inspiring occasion for women's football in Wales," the Adran statement continued.

"These comments have no place in football and society, and those who make them are not welcome at our clubs and stadia."

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If you don't enjoy women's football, please don't watch it

Wilkinson, who represented Canada at four World Cups, stated that anyone who does not enjoy women's football should simply avoid watching it.

"I think there's this piece of women versus men and I think we're all here because of sport," she added.

"That's just what we need to come back to, that if you don't enjoy watching women's football, please don't watch it.

"If you're a fan of Welsh football, please cheer on all levels, all genders, just to make sure we're giving our young people every opportunity to achieve their own ambitions."

Wrexham issued a statement warning that any supporter found to be involved in the online abuse will face a ban from the club.

"We are aware of sexist and misogynistic comments shared online following the [Cardiff] match," they said.

"We stand unequivocally with our players and staff. As a club, we will always support and protect them, and we will continue to promote an environment that is inclusive, welcoming and respectful for all.

"Wrexham AFC will not tolerate discrimination of any kind. Those who hold or express such views are not part of our community. If supporters are identified, then we will ban individuals from all Wrexham AFC sites."

This article was sourced from bbc

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