Crawley 0-1 Sutton: Visiting defender Coby Rowe reports racist abuse from home fans

Coby Rowe has scored two goals in seven appearances for Sutton this season

Crawley Town issued a warning over the public address system during their home defeat by Sutton United after visiting defender Coby Rowe informed the officials he had been racially abused by home fans.

In a statement released after the match, Crawley asked for anyone with information to contact them or Sussex Police.

They said: "The alleged abuse was heard from the home terrace. Crawley Town Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour totally unacceptable."

An 84th-minute goal from substitute Isaac Olaofe gave in-form Sutton their sixth win in the last seven League Two games as they climbed to fifth in the table.

Crawley striker Tom Nichols had a penalty saved eight minutes before Olaofe struck as the hosts went down to their first home league defeat of the season.

The hosts, who had scored in each of their previous six league games, had a strong appeal for a penalty waved away in only the second minute after a challenge by Louis John on Nichols.

Veteran keeper Glenn Morris came to Crawley's rescue on his 500th career appearance when he tipped over a 25-yard free-kick by Rob Milsom, and again did well to parry a goal-bound shot from Richie Bennett.

Crawley almost conceded shortly after half-time when ex-Reds forward Enzio Boldewijn set up Donovan Wilson and his deflected effort went just wide.

Olaofe should have done better when well placed for Sutton before captain Harry Beautyman shot just over from the edge of the area.

Crawley then squandered a chance to take the lead, Sutton keeper Dean Bouzanis diving to his right to save a 76th-minute penalty from Nichols after John brought down Nick Tsaroulla.

And, with six minutes left, Morris failed to punch decisively as Olaofe stole in to head the winner from close range.

Report supplied by PA Media.