A DISCIPLINARY panel of the Football Association of Wales (FAW) has found charges of racism against Cefn Albion FC to be not proven.

The meeting in mid-Wales was held to consider the initial charge brought against the club for the alleged racial or other discriminatory behaviour, conduct or language of its supporters while attending the FAW Trophy semi-final against Cardiff-based STM Sports on March 16.

However, a charge of pitch encroachment and failure of its fans to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion, was proven at the hearing.

A club statement said: "Cefn Albion can confirm that after carefully considering the extensive written, verbal and video evidence that was submitted to assist with the investigations, the FAW panel decided that the all charges relating to racism were found not proven.

"Since these allegations were brought to light via a national ITV Wales television broadcast (aired on 9/4/19) it has been an extremely stressful and trying experience for everyone involved with Cefn Albion, especially because we put so much work into ensuring that ours is a true community club, welcoming and inclusive to all. Needless to say, everyone at the club is delighted and relieved to have been vindicated on these serious allegations.

"As a club, we have tried to act in a dignified and professional manner throughout this process, fully cooperating with the FAW and refusing to react when many others were having their say, without a full understanding of all the facts and available evidence. We would like to think some of those who chose to voice opinions about these allegations before the they had been proven might now take the opportunity to reflect on some of the comments made and their impact on our community and football club."

The statement adds: "We are disappointed but can confirm that FAW panel found the charges of alleged encroachment of the pitch area and alleged failure of its spectators to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion to be proven. Despite raising what we felt were valid points, after reviewing evidence we accept that some supporters were probably a little over exuberant in celebrating an extra time goal in what was at that point, the biggest game in the club’s history. We will take the necessary steps to remind all spectators of their responsibility to support the football club within the rules of the game.

"We can now finally reflect wholly positively on an amazing 2018/19 season, that witnessed the football club lift a prestigious national trophy for the first time, and we can look forward and focus all our efforts on the new 2019/20 campaign knowing that the good name of the club has been upheld.

"We thank everyone who submitted vital evidence and the FAW panel members for their work and for giving us a fair hearing.

"Cefn Albion Football Club will be making no further comment on this matter."