A youth football team official admitted in court yesterday to slightly injuring a referee he assaulted after the man red-carded two of the team’s players.

The incident took place on Monday evening at the Charles Abela Memorial Football Stadium in Mosta during a youth football match between Gżira United and Kirkop United.

Emanuel Ciantar, 44, of Gzira, pleaded guilty to assaulting, threatening and slightly injuring referee Etienne Mangion, as well as breaching public peace and using foul language.

Sources close to the investigation said Mr Ciantar lost his temper when the referee showed a red card to two Gżira players.

The referee suffered slight injuries to his back and face.

Before Magistrate Miriam Hayman, the accused pleaded guilty to the charges. The court conditionally discharged him for three years and banned him from going to any football stadium for a year.

Mr Ciantar was also warned against speaking to the referee or any other officials for a year, with a €1,000 fine for a default.

Inspector Nicholas Vella prosecuted, while lawyer Chris Cilia represented the accused.

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