Ex-Blackburn Star Kelsie Burrows Receives 16-Match Ban for Alleged Official Assault

Football can be a heated game, but things took a turn for the dramatic when former Blackburn Women’s star, Kelsie Burrows, received a 16-match suspension. The ban came in response to an alleged assault on a match official after Cliftonville Women’s 2-0 victory over Glentoran Women on July 25, 2025. The details of the incident are still a bit hazy, but it’s clear that the ramifications are going to be felt for some time.

What Exactly Happened?

According to BBC Sport, the incident unfolded after the match, with referee Simon Bickerstaff giving Burrows her marching orders. Even though the specifics are somewhat murky, this controversy threatens to cast a long shadow over Cliftonville’s season. The team had been in a strong position in Northern Ireland’s Women’s Premiership, being just six points behind the leaders, Linfield, with two games in hand.

A Ripple Effect

However, the incident didn’t only affect Burrows. Cliftonville’s coach, Brendan Lynch, was handed a three-game touchline ban as punishment for “entering the field of play to confront a match official”. It’s clear that the repercussions of this match are far-reaching.

Who is Kelsie Burrows?

A notable name in women’s football, Burrows’ journey includes two stints with Linfield and a spell in England with Blackburn Rovers in the Women’s Championship. Since joining Cliftonville in July 2021 from Linfield, she has been at the heart of the team’s success. The 24-year-old Northern Ireland international played a crucial role in helping the club secure its first-ever league title in 2022. She also captained the team in a memorable 2024 season where they achieved a domestic treble, winning every single match in the league.

What’s Next for Burrows?

The Irish Football Association has confirmed that Burrows’ suspension is effective immediately and will span across all competitions. However, there’s a glimmer of hope as Cliftonville are appealing the decision on grounds they believe warrant a review. Due to the appeal process, Burrows remains eligible to play in the Reds’ next fixture against the Crusaders Strikers on Friday.