Cape Town - A referee from the Blue Bulls referees association is recovering in hospital after allegedly being assaulted following a club game in Gardens, Pretoria.
According to the Volksblad website, Marais van Zyl was hit over the head with a crash helmet and is recovering in the Montana hospital in Pretoria.
It is believed he was attacked by two supporters who were upset with his performance during the game.
Van Zyl, who sustained bruising and swelling to the brain, said he can't recall much of the incident.
"All I can remember was that I was busy putting my belongings in my car when a supporter asked me why my refereeing was so s**t.
"He hit me before I could answer. I struggled to remain conscious and opened my car door to get my cellphone. At that moment he kicked the door to squeeze me in between the door and the car.
"He then pushed me and tried to strangle me around the neck before one of my assistant referees pulled off. Shortly afterwards I felt a huge bang and can't remember much more.
"My face was very sore afterwards and I had massive headache."
Van Zyl later heard it was a second supporter - presumed to be the brother of the first attacker - who hit him over the head with the crash helmet.
Van Zyl's wife, Surita, lodged a complaint of assault and attempted murder with the police.
The executive committee of the Blue Bulls Rugby Union (BBRU) held a meeting regarding the incident on Monday night.
Their CEO, Eugene Hare, said they received a statement from the referees present as well as the club.
