Chaplow banned 2 games for alleged homophobic slur at Rogers

Richard Chaplow of the United Soccer League was suspended for two fixtures Wednesday for allegedly directing homophobic language at Robbie Rogers.

After Rogers alleged he was repeatedly called a "queer" by an opposing player during the LA Galaxy II's 2-0 defeat to Orange County Blues FC, the USL announced Chaplow is suspended for two matches for "offensive and abuse language directed at another player."

The USL's statement didn't specify the incident, nor did it make any reference to homophobia.

From the USL's official website:

The United Soccer League has suspended Orange County Blues FC midfielder Richard Chaplow for two games and fined him an undisclosed amount for offensive and abusive language directed at another player during his team's game against the LA Galaxy II on Aug. 20.

The suspension was determined following the USL Disciplinary Committee's investigation into the matter that included a video review, speaking with the referee, as well as players and staff from both teams.

"The USL has zero tolerance for this type of behavior," said Jake Edwards, President of the USL. "We cannot, nor will we, condone any language that is counter to the values we have instilled throughout the USL."

Rogers, the first openly gay player in Major League Soccer, took to Facebook on Saturday after making his return from Achilles surgery, alleging that an opposing player repeatedly called him a "queer" during the last quarter-hour of the encounter.

"To be honest my initial reaction reaction was one of shock," Rogers wrote. "This is my fourth season back in the MLS and I've yet to hear another player use that or any other gay slur during a game."

Chaplow, 31, moved to the USL in July. His resume includes West Bromwich Albion and Southampton among numerous English clubs.