FAW statement: Rhys Griffiths

Penybont FC manager Rhys Griffiths has been charged with the Disciplinary Offence as set out under FAW Rule 38.1.1 for breach of the FAW Social Media Regulations.

Following the JD Welsh Cup fixture between Penybont FC and Flint Town United FC on 13 December 2025, Mr Griffiths is alleged to have made comments during a post-match interview which:

• Questioned the integrity of the match referee and/or the Association; and/or
• Were offensive, insulting, derogatory and/or of a personal nature which was likely to cause offence; and/or
• Implied bias of match officials; and/or
• Brought the Association and/or the game of Association Football under the jurisdiction of the Association into disrepute
  

Having reviewed the red card incident that Mr Griffiths referred to in their post-match interview, the FAW’s Elite Match Official’s Manager confirmed the decision by match referee Iwan Griffith to show a red card to Penybont FC’s Chris Venables was correct in accordance with the Laws of the Game.

The challenge committed by Chris Venables was a stamping motion with speed and intensity, with the point of contact on the knee/leg of the opponent. A tackle or challenge that endangers the safety of an opponent or uses excessive force must be sanctioned as serious foul play and a red card issued.

In accordance with FAW Rule 43.1.2, Mr Griffiths has seven (7) Business Days to respond to the charge.