Valletta FC ask Malta FA to open an investigation into Paul Mbong’s behaviour after Saturday’s derby

Valletta FC have condemned the behaviour of Floriana winger Paul Mbong at the end of Saturday’s Malta Premier League Final Four semi-final and have appealed to the Malta Football Association to open an investigation into the behaviour of the national team player.

Floriana booked their place in the YoHealth Malta Premier League Finalissima with a 3-1 penalty shoot-out victory over Valletta and during the live broadcast, Mbong was seen directing disparaging comments towards the Valletta fans.

Valletta FC strongly condemned the behaviour.

“Valletta FC condemns in the strongest possible terms the deeply offensive and disparaging comments directed towards our supporters by an opposing player immediately following yesterday’s semifinal, as clearly broadcast on National TV,” the statement said.

“Football is built on passion and rivalry. However, there can never be any place for conduct which shows contempt or disrespect towards supporters – the very people who give life to our game.

“Whilst emotions understandably run high after matches of this magnitude, the offensive comments in question fall far below the standards expected from any player, even more so from an individual privileged to represent the National Team.

“At the same time, Valletta FC wishes to make it clear that we consider this to be the action and responsibility of the individual concerned, and we do not associate these actions with his club.”

Valletta FC concluded their statement by asking the Malta FA to investigate the player’s behaviour.

“We therefore call upon the Malta Football Association to investigate the matter and take any steps it deems appropriate in order to safeguard the values of respect and sportsmanship which football must continue to uphold,” the club said.

“Finally, Valletta FC would also like to place on record its appreciation for the officiating team led by Mr Slobodan Petrović, whose handling of an intense and emotionally charged encounter was of an excellent standard throughout.

“Our supporters deserve respect. Always”