Young Men's Social Club player Ian DeSilva will be facing disciplinary action tonight for his alleged attack on referee Oral Swan during a Second Division soccer match at Bernard Park last month.

DeSilva is charged with punching the official at the 30-minute mark of the first half after coming out on the `wrong' end of a challenge with a St.

David's player. When Swan allowed play to continue DeSilva is said to have attacked Swan, throwing several punches, one of which landed to the side of the face.

BFA General Secretary David Sabir said the fact that several weeks had passed since the incident did not mean that it was forgotten.

"It definitely hasn't been forgotten. He is still under suspension and surely is ineligible to play until his case has been heard,'' said Sabir.

"We are a responsible body and it's our duty to ensure that incidents like this are not overlooked or allowed to be forgotten for any reason. We view it to be extremely serious and I am certain that the committee will give it their full attention.'' The incident has not discouraged Swan from officiating, however. In fact, he has been one of the most active referees in recent weeks.

Both BFA president Neville Tyrrell and Stuart Crockwell, president of the Bermuda Referees Association, praised Swan for both continuing the game after the incident and for continuing to referee.

"I was saddened to hear about this because we have gone through a long period of quiet. It's unfortunate that it happened and I cringe every time I hear something like this incident because it does set the programme back,'' said Tyrrell immediately afterwards.

Added Crockwell: "I think it was very distasteful, but the referee had a commendable game. He dealt with the incident in a professional manner. But I do think it was unfortunate that it happened.

"We haven't experienced anything like it for quite some time. With the recruitment of the new referees I would hope something like that doesn't discourage them from continuing the season.'' DAVID SABIR -- DeSilva charge `extremely serious'