Roma fans attack referee Taylor and family at the airport: 'Disgusting images'

Jun 01, 2023 at 11:42 PMUpdate: 2 minutes ago

Referee Anthony Taylor and his family were attacked by AS Roma fans at the airport in Budapest on Thursday. The supporters of the Italian club hold the referee responsible for the defeat against Sevilla in the Europa League final.

Videos on social media show the England referee being intimidated and abused by dozens of Roma supporters. There is also a throw with water and a chair, among other things. Police took Taylor and his family to safety.

The English referees association PGMOL speaks of ‘disgusting images’. “We are shocked by the unjustified and abhorrent insults towards Anthony and his family when he tries to come home after the Europa League final whistle. We will continue to support Anthony and his family.”

After the final, Roma coach José Mourinho attacked the referee in the parking garage of the Puskás Aréna. “You’re an utter disgrace!” the coach yelled at Taylor.

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‘Arbitration was not up to standard’

Taylor handed out a total of thirteen yellow cards to players in the final, seven of which to Roma. Mourinho and two assistants also received yellow cards after protesting.

Mourinho said afterwards that Taylor constantly whistled against Roma. The Portuguese thought that Roma had been denied a penalty after a handball from Sevilla. The trainer also did not agree with the decision to have the decisive penalty kick taken again in the penalty series.

The players and management of Roma were also critical of Taylor’s performance afterwards. “We are very frustrated because of multiple incidents in the game,” sporting director Tiago Pinto said. “The arbitration was not at the level of a Europa League final.”

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