Updated: Valletta Stars, MAFA condemn player’s assault towards referee

The Malta Amateur Football Association (MAFA) condemned the incidents that happened during the First Division match between Valletta Stars and Marsa St Michael, which saw referee C.J. Saliba attacked by a Valletta Stars player.

The incident happened after 55 minutes of play when referee Saliba was assaulted by a Valletta Stars player forcing the official to suspend the match.

“The Malta Amateur Football Association (MAFA) condemns the incidents and violent acts which occurred during the First Division match between Valletta Stars and Marsa St Michael,” the governing body said in a statement.

“The association condemns the violent act in which referee CJ Saliba was attacked violently on 55 minutes of the match by a Valletta Stars player.  

“The association reiterates the fact such acts are deplorable and any official, player or supporter who does these things cannot be part of MAFA.”

On their part, Valletta Stars also issued a statement to condemn the actions of their player and said that the player will be suspended indefinitely.

“The club would like to condemn such actions held by our player during the MAFA – Malta Amateur Football Association match against Marsa St Michael’s on the referee,” the club said.

“The club always discouraged such behaviour on the pitch as it is unacceptable.

“The committee of Valletta Stars has taken immediate action against the player and will be given an indefinite suspension.”

The Malta FA also issued a statement to condemn the events of Saturday and said that the incident is now subject to the disciplinary process which is applicable for amateur leagues.

“The Malta Football Association expresses solidarity with referee C J Saliba who has suffered from an assault during the MAFA game between Marsa St. Michaels and Valletta Stars which was being played at the Marsaxlokk Ground yesterday,” the statement said.

“The incident will be subject to the disciplinary process which is equally applicable for amateur leagues organised by its member associations.

“The Malta FA unequivocally condemns any form of violent behaviour and reiterates that violence has no place in football.”