Ħamrun Spartans have confirmed that both captain Henry Bonello and defender Rafael Compri will face a disciplinary hearing before the club’s Governance and Ethics Board. This follows a heated clash between the two players at the end of Tuesday’s UEFA Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The confrontation took place immediately after the final whistle of a dramatic 2-1 defeat at the Tony Bezzina Stadium, where Maccabi Tel Aviv scored a stoppage-time winner following a costly defensive error. Bonello, visibly furious, confronted Compri after the latter’s mistake led to the decisive goal.
In a statement, Ħamrun Spartans CEO Marcel Bonnici praised the team’s historic performance despite the late heartbreak, stating:
“Reaching the Third Qualifying Round of the UEFA Europa League is a historic milestone – one that no other Maltese club has ever achieved – and we are immensely proud of this accomplishment.
“Despite the technical and financial strength of our opponents, it is widely acknowledged that our team delivered a performance that deserved more.”
However, he also expressed disappointment at the altercation:
“Regrettably, this remarkable performance was overshadowed by an incident involving our captain, Henry Bonello, and player Rafael Compri at the end of the match.
“As a club, we categorically condemn such behaviour. It does not reflect our values, the standards we uphold, the level we want to arrive at, and the image we publicly promote.
“To address this matter with the seriousness it warrants, we are convening our Governance and Ethics Board immediately. Disciplinary and corrective action will be taken to ensure accountability and uphold the integrity of our club.”
Apologies Issued by Bonello and Compri
Both players have since issued letters of apology, which the club has chosen to reproduce in full. The letters are attached below as is a short summary.
Statement from Henry Bonello (Captain)
“I would like to sincerely apologise to my teammates, coaches, the club administration, and most importantly to the supporters of Ħamrun Spartans for my actions following the match against Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The emotions of the game got the better of me, and I reacted in a way that was unprofessional and unacceptable. I take full responsibility for my behaviour and regret the impact it had on our team and our image as a club.
I remain fully committed to our shared goals and will accept the club’s decision and any consequences. I am determined to learn from this incident and lead by example moving forward.”
Statement from Rafael Compri (Defender)
“I want to express my deepest apologies to everyone at Ħamrun Spartans – my teammates, the coaching staff, club management, and the fans – for the incident that occurred after the match.
I understand the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt, and I am truly sorry for the actions that took place. It was a moment of frustration, but it should not have happened.
I respect the club’s disciplinary process and will cooperate fully. I remain committed to giving my all for the team, both on and off the pitch.”
The Ħamrun Spartans’ Governance and Ethics Board is expected to meet in the coming days to assess the incident and determine the appropriate disciplinary measures.
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