The Qormi head coach Jesmond Zerafa was handed a six match ban by the MFA disciplinary board after receiving a straight red card in the Amateur League 1 match against Mellieha on Sunday. The referee in question was Joanna Vassallo.
Qormi head coach Jesmond Zerafa was shown a straight red card in the 77th minute of the match after threatening the referee, Joanna Vassallo and directing verbal insults at her, accompanied by sarcastic hand gestures. The incident escalated tensions on the field, leaving officials with no choice but to send him off.
Following the match, the referee reported an additional confrontation, where she claimed Zerafa made further remarks. According to her account, he stated, “Issa insibek barra, laqwa li ħadt li ridt, fotteja logħba,” which translates to, “I’ll find you outside, at least you got what you wanted, you ruined the game.”
This incident underscores the importance of discipline and respect in football, particularly towards match officials who play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the game.
The hefty six match ban imposed on Zerafa sould serve as a reminder that such behavior will not be tolerated, reinforcing the need for professionalism on and off the field. Moving forward, football authorities may also consider additional measures to protect referees and ensure a safe and respectful environment for all involved.
