For almost two decades, I was involved directly in the game of football but these last eight to 10 years I had the pleasure to be involved as a spectator in the game of basketball because of my son's direct involvement in the game as a player in the first division league.

I must say I liked the game instantly because it is a very masculine game, very skillful, energetic and requires so much dedication. I strongly recommend parents to encourage their children to get involved in this game and the government to help the MBA more to make this game more attractive.

I am writing these lines because, unfortunately, I was directly involved in a disciplinary action against my son's club. His club was fined Lm25 because a referee official felt offended by my loud cheering and over-reaction against a referee decision which I felt was wrong. I did not, and I repeat, I did not offend the referee personally or used foul or abusing language or at worst swore.

If the referee was offended by my behaviour, I publicly ask for forgiveness and apologise for what I did.

I thought that in a civilised world, everybody has the right of speech. I never thought that this right would be so abusively taken away from me in the year 2005. Even more, I never realised that if I shout and protest (at Ta' Qali hangar my voice echoes) at a referee's decision I am committing a crime that may carry the humiliation of almost being escorted by two policemen and see my team's players being fouled out one by one as a way to have revenge on me.

Again my apologies for my misbehaviour.

By the way, you will not see or hear me anymore as I do not wish that my team gets another fine and also be maltreated because of me. If the MBA needs money, it should do something to attract more supporters and make the game more attractive, maybe invest in some new, younger, promising referees. I will be willing to contribute.

I was a football fanatic and accustomed to loud cheers and protests against referees, but at Ta' Qali hangar it echoes a lot and booing is more appropriate.

Enjoy the game my son because I know you love the game and I do not want to spoil it for you. It is a nice game. I will try and get a glimpse of you and your wonderful friends on TV. Your team is magic.