COLERAINE soccer star Eoin Bradley has been subjected to online sectarian abuse after being captured on camera answering a call of nature during a high-profile game.
The former Derry Gaelic footballer's team was knocked out of the Irish Cup by Ballymena United after a penalty shoot-out on Monday.
The semi-final was played without spectators at Belfast's Windsor Park but was broadcast live by the BBC.
Bradley, who scored a spectacular free kick during the game, was seen discreetly urinating on the pitch during a break before extra time.
It is understood he had asked if he could go to the toilet but was turned down.
While it is not the first time a footballer has felt forced to relieve themselves during a game, Bradley's actions attracted some comment on social media including one abusive post describing him as a "typical Fenian".
The footballer later posted to defend himself.
“Yes I done a piss on Windsor,” he wrote.
“Yes I'm a Fenian/Catholic. Some of my best mates are Protestants. So what. It's 2020. Grow up.
“Treat people as you would like to be treated .”
General manager at Coleraine Stevie McCann condemned the remarks.
“Comments of a sectarian nature have no part in and are not welcome at Coleraine FC,” he said.
