Mellieha SC deplore player’s behaviour

Mellieha Sports Club issued a statement to deplore the behaviour of Brazilian striker Tiago Loquete who attacked referee Trustin Farrugia Cann at the end of the first half of the BOV Second Division match between Mellieha and Gudja United on Sunday.

In the statement signed by secretary Sunny Abela, the President and Committee of Mellieha SC categorically deplored the irresponsible behaviour of Tiago Loquete, saying such behaviour could never be accepted.

For this reason, the Committee suspended the player with immediate effect.

The club also expressed solidarity with Trustin Farrugia Cann.

Meanwhile in a joint statement, the Malta Football Association and the Malta Football Referees Association condemned the incident and stressed that physical abuse on match officials is not tolerated and disciplinary action will be taken against those committing such acts.

The association stated that respect towards players, administrators, supporters and match officials was a priority and therefore everyone should shoulder responsibility for such behaviour which goes against the principles shared by all within the football family.