Updated | Birkirkara-Mosta match postponed following directive issued by Referees' association

Malcolm Spiteri was in charge of the FA trophy match between Mosta and Sliema Wanderers which ended 3-2 in favour of the Wanderers. In that match, Sliema came from two goals down to secure a place in the next round.

Following the match, Mosta blamed the referee’s decisions for such scenario.

The MFRA noticed that four people related to Mosta FC used social media to insult and offend Malcolm Spiteri. They made particular reference to his mother who had passed away.

According to the MFRA, these people were Adrian Farrugia (finance manager), Robert Frendo (kit manager), Owen Vella (club official) and Bryan Agius (Ex Mosta player and supporter).

In their statement, the MFRA asked Mosta FC and the Malta Football Association to take disciplinary action against these people. According to this statement, failing to do so will mean that both Mosta and the MFA are approving of this behaviour. At that moment, they pointed out that they were convinced that this was not the case.

Two weeks passed from this incident and the MFRA stated that no action was taken and asked its members not to officiate in this weekend’s match between Mosta and Birkirkara which is due to be played on Sunday at the Hibernians stadium.

In their reaction, the MFA published a statement saying that the association have always safeguarded the interests of match officials which has resulted in new opportunities and achievements in the refereeing sector. The MFA also argued that they always take disciplinary actions against those who show lack of respect towards match officials in competitions organised by the association.

Regarding this particular incident, the MFA stated that they took immediate action as the disciplinary board is currently investigating comments made by those who fall under the association's jurisdiction.

The MFA continued by saying that it will not shy away from its responsibility to protect the match officials and any other stake holder in the game. The MFA unreservedly condemned any form of abuse.

In relation to the directive issued by the MFRA, the MFA stated that this measure was uncalled for and reminded all concerned of the obligations tied to their respective roles.

In a final note, the MFA stated that internal discussions are still going on and will pursue further discussions with all parties concerned.

The MFA issued another statement this evening stating that the mentioned match between Birkirkara and Mosta is postponed and will be played in the coming days.