Kingston racism claims played down

Motherwell have played down claims that Hearts' midfielder Laryea Kingston was racially abused by home fans during the SPL match at Fir Park.

The Ghana international scored the first of Hearts' two goals in the 2-0 win on Monday night, but the match was marred by the alleged abuse.

But Motherwell deny anything untoward happened and consider the matter now closed.

"It appears a match official mentioned to a police officer that he may have heard something untoward but could not be sure," a Motherwell spokesman said.

"The police looked into it and have confirmed they are not investigating and Hearts are making no complaint.

"We would like to make it absolutely clear that this club does not tolerate any form of bigotry or racism."

Hearts assistant coach Stephen Frail said: "I never heard any racial abuse from anyone.

"We would like to stamp that out but from where I was standing I have not heard anything."

Strathclyde Police issued a statement indicating there was no official complaint and therefore the matter will be taken no further.