Gilport get reprieve over 'defaulter'

Koketso Kgoboge | Friday March 8, 2019 12:40

The First Division committee had charged Lions for using Thabiso Keaikitse who was deemed improperly registered in their match against Modipane.

The committee ruled in favour of Modipane, and Lions were docked three points and two goals. Lions maintained the player was appropriately registered and appealed the matter with the BFA disciplinary committee.

BFA legal and compliance officer, Tumisang Hule said the disciplinary committee had ruled that the First Division South had not handled the matter properly. He said the league executive ruled without affording both parties audience.

“It seems also that some parties that sat on the panel that made the judgment were conflicted. The DC has found inconsistencies and the matter would be heard afresh next week,” he said.

Recent reports pointed out that the First Division South received a stick for the poor handling of the matter and could be cautioned for incompetence.

But the league’s secretary, Tico Kamati maintains there were no inconsistencies in the way they handled the matter. He said they gave both parties a fair chance to prove their case. Kamati confirmed they were aware of reports alleging incompetency. He said they were not shaken by the reports and would prepare their defence.

Lions are three points behind leaders Jwaneng Fighters, after the diamond-mining town side won the top of the table clash a fortnight ago. Action continues in the South, with Lions up against third-placed Broadhurst United at the Lekidi Astro Turf. Leaders, Jwaneng Fighters travel to meet Mochudi Rovers while Red Sparks host Mogoditshane Fighters. Black Peril take the long drive to Tsabong to face Black Rangers; Matebejane visit Blue Stars and Modipane are home to Flamingo Santos.  In the north, Wanderers are unrelenting in their title pursuit after respective back-to-back 3-1 victories over Francistown City Greens and GNT.

Giants’ slayers, Eleven Angels will test the Boyo Radipotsane led Wanderers this weekend. Angels beat Sua Flamingoes 4-0 before narrowly losing to rivals TAFIC, who face Selebi-Phikwe’s Real Movers on Sunday.

In other matches, Flamingoes, who have fallen 10 points behind leaders, Wanderers would look to revive their fading dream of promotion against Nico United in Selebi-Phikwe.

On-form Motlakase host Calendar Stars, City Greens host Palapye All Stars. Relegation threatened duo, GNT and Green Lovers meet in a survival battle in Francistown.