Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold says the homophobic banner displayed by the Red and Black Bloc (RBB) has no place in Australian sport and is surprised he never received an apology from Western Sydney Wanderers.
Members of the RBB displayed the offensive banner which depicted Arnold in a homosexual act during Saturday’s Sydney derby at the ANZ Stadium, leading to widespread condemnation from fans, media and Football Federation Australia (FFA).
Wanderers came down hard on 14 Members on Wednesday, suspending their memberships and only allowing their re-admission if they completed a social inclusion program. They also put the RBB on notice.
Arnold and Sydney informally requested an apology from Wanderers via FFA following the incident but never received anything from their city rivals.
“I would’ve probably liked one,” Arnold said.
“I haven’t heard from them in four days so I don’t want one now.
“At the end of the day I would’ve hoped I would’ve got any apology, but I didn’t get one. We just move on.”
Arnold also slammed the RBB for the banner which he felt was inappropriate.
“Does it bother me? Not at all. I’ve got a thick skin and I’ve been in this game for 30 odd years,” Arnold said.
“I’ve been called a lot worse and been through tougher times.
“It’s completely inappropriate for my children, my family and all those young kids who turned up to the game with their parents to watch the game.
“I don’t think it has any place in Australian sport. It’s not right in Australian sport overall.”
The Sky Blues boss also revealed his wife and daughters had been put off football as a result of the incident.
“My family were upset to the fact where my girls have come to every game of football that I’ve coached and played since I can remember and they don’t want to come anymore,” he said.
“It’s a strong statement from my girls and my wife. My wife is extremely upset. There’s no apology, so we just have to get on with it.”
Meanwhile, Sydney FC supporter group The Cove have apologised on social media for the damage caused by a section of their fans during the derby.
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