I imagine that if an official took time away from the game to address a parent/fan about their comments, chances are the "general comments" were a bit overboard. I can't imagine a ref halting play or confronting someone for stating "You know Bill, I believe the quality of game management is lacking in the center official's decisions tonight." More than likely a "You suck!" or "What are you doing!?!?!" Were the culprits. I wasn't there, but why address something that wasn't a big deal.
I don't believe that because it is tolerated in basketball, we should do the same in soccer. People speak up when they want their displeasure voiced. If you want to say your piece, find a different way to express it. Simple cheers and boos would suffice, but never a direct statement.
