Super League of Malawi (Sulom) has slapped Ekhaya FC with a K3 million fine and suspended their goalkeeper Elias Missi for three matches for violent conduct during their TNM Super League match against FCB Nyasa Bullets on July 2 at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.
Missi was found guilty of strangling Bullets’ Nigerian striker Babatunde Adepoju during the heated encounter which the People’s Team won 1-0.
The Blantyre-based Super League newcomers were also charged with bringing the league into disrepute and damaging the image of sponsors TNM plc and Sulom.
In a statement released on Monday, Sulom confirmed the disciplinary action.
The statement reads in part: “The Super League of Malawi Disciplinary Committee has suspended Elias Missi for the next three league matches, effective immediately while Ekhaya FC has been fined K3 million for bringing the league into disrepute.
“During the game, Ekhaya FC goalkeeper Elias Missi was accused of engaging in violent misconduct, strangling FCB Nyasa Big Bullets striker Babatunde Adepoju.
“His club, through the actions of its goalkeeper, brought disorder to the game, damaging the image of the sponsors TNM plc, the Super League of Malawi and the game.”
In an interview yesterday, Ekhaya general secretary Thando Mhango said they are yet to decide the next course of action.
He said: “We have received the verdict, but we haven’t sat down as a club to review it. We will be doing that possibly this afternoon.
“After that, it’s when we will be able to say what action we will take.”
Meanwhile, Sulom has urged clubs to take responsibility of the actions of their players, supporters and officials.
Reads the statement: “Clubs are urged to educate their players, staff and supporters on the importance of order and respect for the rules of the game,” the statement reads further.
Sulom also warned of stiffer penalties for clubs found guilty of misconduct.
“Future incidents involving violence or disorderly conduct will be met with firm and appropriate disciplinary action.
“Sulom reiterates its commitment to upholding discipline, integrity and fair play in the league.”
This is the second major disciplinary ruling by Sulom within a week as last week, the league runners also fined Silver Strikers K1.75 million and imposed a home ground ban for the remainder of the season.
However, the sanction has been suspended for three month.
