A REGIONAL football match in Spain was marred by a spectator’s sick rape threats directed at a teenage assistant referee – forcing players to intervene.
On the Canary Island of Fuerteventura, a fixture between CD Chilegua and UD Jandia descended into chaos after a fan accosted the female official.
Players came over to help protect the official
Local media report that the man told the 16-year-old: “If I catch you outside, I will rape you.”
The threats and violent gestures continued as players came over and had the supporter thrown out.
It is just the latest incident to have disrupted football on the Spanish islands.
Three Cordoba supporters were seen shouting death threats at officials after a high-tempered game against CD Femarguin on Gran Canaria.
And football authorities are said to be considering a hefty punishment for Jandia after the action of their fan towards the teenage linesman.
The same club saw their president, coach and one player banned after supporters threw projectiles and invaded the field of play earlier in the season.
The local football federation released a statement to confirm that they: “condemn this type of sexist attitude that in no way benefits the full integration of women into sports and the practice of football without physical and verbal violence.
“Both the federation and its referees committee believe that actions of this nature only scare away young people interested in refereeing.
“We express our total solidarity and support to our colleague in Fuerteventura who was the victim of abusive treatment by a fan.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk