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Tadious Manyepo-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Northern Region Soccer League’s Disciplinary Committee feels vindicated after ZIFA’s Appeals Committee yesterday upheld their judgment on an abandoned match between Karoi United and Scottland.
In a much-awaited ruling, easily the most sought-after judgment in domestic football this year, the Appeals Committee awarded the game to Scotland on a 3-0 scoreline, also settling the NRSL championship battle that had been in the final few weeks turned out to be a two-horse race involving second-placed MWOS.
Although the outcome of the appeal was largely expected due to precedence and had little bearing on Karoi United’s log standings, it was keenly followed by the Scottland and MWOS camps.
Meanwhile, Scottland had already been crowned after their final game against Black Mambas at Rufaro on November 8 amid reports that Karoi United had withdrawn their appeal.
After forcing the nation to wait with bated breaths for seven working days, the appeals committee delivered their verdict which was also a relief for NRSL chairman Martin Kweza and his leadership, as they had also been a subject of ridicule on some social media platforms.
In yesterday’s ruling, Karoi were once again found guilty of causing the abandonment of their match against Scottland at Chikangwe Stadium on September 15.
The game was aborted with the scores tied at 1-1 with eight minutes of regulation time remaining when referee Matthew Dingo was hit by a missile on his groin area while being treated, the home fans turned violent subsequently causing a premature end to the exciting encounter.
The NRSL disciplinary committee comprising chairman Watson Chagwiza, secretary Sikhumbuzo Mpofu, and former referee Edmore Chiza (member) found Karoi United guilty.
They fined the Mashonaland West province club and also awarded the game to Scottland on a 3-0 scoreline in favour of Scotland.
Unhappy with that judgment, Karoi then took their protest to the ZIFA Appeals Committee chaired by Susan Mutangadura.
According to ZIFA chief executive Yvonne Manwa, the full text of the judgment is expected to be released today.
However, the NRSL confirmed in a brief statement that the Appeals Committee had upheld the ruling of the disciplinary committee.
“We have taken note of the decision of the ZIFA Appeals committee about the abandoned match between Karoi United FC and Scottland FC. The Appeals committee upheld the decision of the NRSL Disciplinary committee, wherein Karoi United FC was found guilty for causing the abandonment of the match, and consequently the match was awarded to Scottland FC on a 3-0 scoreline,” read the NRSL statement.
“This judgment is a vindication of our disciplinary committee. We are of the firm belief that the decision is in line with all known football Rules and Regulations and the spirit of Fair play.
“We hope that this will bring closure to the issue and that henceforth our members and stakeholders will move forward and prepare for the forthcoming season.
“We thank you all for your patience and understanding during this entire process.”
The case had somehow put a damper on Scottland’s celebrations after securing a historic title, sealing promotion in their maiden season.
They can now breathe some fresh air and go ahead with their 2025 plans in which they will be playing in the Premier Soccer League.
Yesterday’s outcome torched fresh celebrations among the Scottland players, coaches, management, and fans.
Online Reporter