La Liga match abandoned after linesman is hit by umbrella

A Spanish assistant referee touches his lip as he holds an umbrella thrown from the stands (Reuters)

A Spanish league match between Granada and Mallorca on Sunday was abandoned in the 63rd minute after a linesman was hit in the face by an umbrella hurled from the stands at Los Carmenes stadium.

The referee immediately ordered his fellow officials and the teams off the pitch, with Granada winning 2-1. After some 20 minutes, he announced the match would be continued at a later date.

Granada coach Fabricio Gonzalez said: "We are in a state of shock. Our fans have always helped us and this is a pity."

Granada returned to Spain's topflight this season after 35 years in lower divisions.

They are currently in the relegation zone after 11 games.

AP