Grotesque abuse hurled at Cyrus Christie online came to the fore this week, the latest example of how football, and sport in general, continues to battle the scourge of racism.

The Cork Schoolboys League has defended its decision to impose a €200 fine on a club after one of its teams took a stand against racism.

The Cork Schoolboys League have confirmed in a statement that the result and the fine to Carrigaline United will stand following the club’s decision not to continue a league game after a player was allegedly subjected to racial abuse during the match.

FORMER Ireland soccer star Curtis Fleming has urged parents who watch football with their children to help combat racism by instilling a respect for difference in them.