ADDIS ABABA (Semonegna)–A referee has been attacked by Welwalo Adigrat University FC players and manager after making a controversial decision in Ethiopian Premier League, the top flight of the country’s football, on one of 22nd week games which was held at Addis Ababa Stadium.
The military team Defence FC (Mekelakeya) and Welwalo Adigrat University FC were drawing 1-1 when the referee ruled the ball crossed the line and gave a goal to Defence FC allowing them to lead 2-1.
Welwalo Adigrat University FC players then chased the referee, named Eyasu Fente, and he was punched to the ground by one of their managers.
The manager, named Maru Gebretsadik, has been fired by the Club on the very next day; and the Ethiopian Football Federation has suspended all games in the league.
A video on state television’s (ETV) YouTube Channel shows the referee attempting to defend himself with a corner flag. One of Defence FC’s players, Fitsum Gebremariam, who scored the controversial goal was also a victim of assault by Welwalo team members. Fitsum tried to protect the referee from the attackers; however, they were too much that they pushed him away even by stripping his jersey off of him. The game was ultimately discontinued on the 84th minute.
There have been several instances of violence in the Ethiopian football games recently, and this latest incident triggered the ban on games. Similar incidents were observed three weeks ago on a game between Woldia FC and Fasil Kenema FC at Mohammed Al Amoudi Stadium in Dessie town (19th week of the League).
Mr. Juneidi Basha, the President of EFF, said on interview with ETV that such unethical actions by the football clubs, their members and supporters are unacceptable and will not be tolerated, leading to severe consequences to the club including dismissal from the League.
Federation officials will meet the league’s 16 teams on Thursday.