Attacks on match officials could ‘kill’ soccer, top former ref Collina says after latest incident

By JAMES ROBSON
AP Soccer Writer

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Referee Halil Umut Meler desperately tried to shield himself from the kicks of angry fans. He had fallen to the ground after being attacked on the field by the president of a top Turkish soccer team. Monday’s shocking scene at the end of a Turkish league game was an example of the violence and abuse directed toward officials. It was claimed Wednesday that other incidents have been as extreme as car bombs. Meler was hospitalized after being punched by MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca at the end of a 1-1 draw with Caykur Rizespor. Fans invaded the pitch after Rizespor scored a last-minute equalizer.