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Nomads to appeal

 

Be Forward Wanderers yesterday vowed to challenge a K650 000 fine imposed on them by Football Association of Malawi (FAM)  for the fracas that happened during the Carlsberg Cup semi-final against Mangochi Police at Kamuzu Stadium a fortnight ago.

Wanderers vice-chairperson Gift Mkandawire described FAM’s fine as unjust.

“We condemn violence in strongest terms. It should not be entertained at all cost. However, the verdict fails to stamp out the other contributors to the system collpse.

Mangochi Police goalkeeper George Chauya being taken to the hospital following the fracas
Mangochi Police goalkeeper George Chauya being taken to the hospital following the fracas

“We will definitely challenge the verdict. Yes, there is a lot that we need to do, but why should we be punished because the police, who were hired by FAM, failed to do their job? I was at the pre-match meeting on that day and the police were asked to make sure that no supporter should be in the tunnel or dressing rooms. Why did they fail to control the situation?

“Remember, unlike in a Super League match, this is a game organised by FAM, who are also responsible for providing security and not the clubs. It’s the police who failed to do their job. If they are failing to provide security, why do they hire them? Why didn’t they arrest the ones who are responsible? Why should the club be punished?”

But according to a verdict signed by FAM general secretary Suzgo Nyirenda, the Nomads were found guilty on three charges of bullying their opponents, failure to control supporters and bringing the game of football into disrepute.

The verdict reads:  “From the reports it clearly emerged that Mighty Be Forward Wanderers supporters invaded the tunnel and the dressing area during the interval despite being aware and having been advised that they were not allowed to do so.

“Mighty Be Forward Wanderers Football Club were found guilty of bullying Mangochi Police Football Club player by pouring him pork soup. As per article 24.12 of the Carlsberg Cup rules and regulations, Mighty Be Forward Wanderers Football Club are fined K500 000.

“Mighty Be Forward Wanderers Football Club were found guilty of bringing the game of football into disrepute following the negative publicity of the above stated match as a result of the actions of its supporters. As per article 24.21, read with Article 24.1 of the Carlsberg Cup rules and regulations, Mighty Be Forward Wanderers Football Club are fined K150 000.”

The committee considered a response to the charges from Mighty Be Forward Wanderers Football Club as well as reports submitted by the match coordinator, the police, the stewards, the referee, match commissioner, Mangochi Police FC and Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.

This is a second fine in the competition after FAM also fined the Nomads K300 000 for another incident that happened at Balaka Stadium in the quarter-final against Prison United.

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