East Kilbride hand over footage from alleged racism incident in Stranraer clash to Police Scotland

Kilby have conducted their own internal investigation and now passed information on to the authorities

East Kilbride Football Club has announced they have handed over video footage to Police Scotland following Saturday's alleged racist abuse aimed at Kilby star Joao Balde.

Towards the end of the League Two clash with Stranraer at K-Park, Balde - who had missed some big chances the last time the sides met in a play-off defeat for EK in 2024 - scored an overhead kick right in front of the visiting support. The Portuguese midfielder then celebrated in front of the Stranraer fans and it is alleged one supporter made a racist slur towards him.

A fan was soon ejected from the stadium following a short stoppage in play, while Balde ended up being sent off for a second booking just moments later for a late tackle.

Now the club has passed on all information they have to police. It is understood the League Two club have reviewed CCTV footage and match footage from their own club TV channel, as well as compiling player statements.

A statement from the club today read: "East Kilbride FC can confirm the conclusion of its internal investigation into an alleged incident on Saturday against Stranraer FC.

"Footage and relevant information has now been passed on to the relevant authorities and this matter will now be dealt with by Police Scotland."

Kilby skipper Jack Leitch had to hold Balde back after the incident as EK players surrounded the alleged perpetrator.

Leitch said at the time: "Joao repeated what was said to me and then I called the guy out on it.

"The fan was denying it to me and I just stayed with Joao after it. It's just ridiculous and disgusting."

Following the game, Stranraer FC posted on social media: "Stranraer Football Club takes a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of racist and discriminatory behaviour.

"The club has been made aware of an allegation during today’s game at K Park. We treat any such reports with the utmost seriousness and will work with East Kilbride FC and the relevant authorities to ensure the incident is investigated thoroughly."

It is the second time during his spell at the club that Balde has made a racism complaint. Last season, he was subjected to racial abuse during a Challenge Cup win over Airdrie.

Police Scotland has been contacted for comment.