There is no ugly way to begin the year as Epac FC and relegated Dedza Young Soccer have after the Super of League of Malawi (Sulom) fined both sides following the incidents that marred their final game at Civo Stadium on December 19.
Epac have been fined a total of K800,000 after being found guilty of two counts; failure to control their supporters and for pitch invasion.
Dedza have been fined K500,000 for bringing the game into disrepute.
According to the verdict dates, 1st January, 2016, Sulom Disciplinary Committee convened on 31st December, 2015 for a disciplinary hearing following disturbances during TNM Super League game between Epac and Dedza.
Representatives from both teams were reportedly present at the hearing.
Epac was found guilty on the charge of failure to control the actions of supporters which is contrary to Article 21 (2) of the TNM Super League rules and regulations, after the club failed to control its supporters who blocked the entrance into the dressing room thereby preventing players and officials from using the said dressing room.
On this count Epac were fined K450,000.
Dedza were not spared either, on the charge of bringing the game of football into disrepute in contravention of Article 14 of the Sulom as read with Article 21of Sulom rules and regulations.
The relegated side were found guilty of willfully refusing to use the dressing room both before the match and during half time as such they were fined K500,000.
Both teams must pay the fine before any league and cup game. Epac general secretary, Orbet Chazunda, said the club will meet to discuss the verdict.
“In my opinion we need to appeal. However, I can’t make this decision on my own. I need the input of other officials. Therefore we will discuss as an executive for our official stand,” he said.
Dedza general secretary, Panganeni Ndovie, said they were yet to get the verdict.
“We have heard it through the media. Once served with the determination we will discuss it,” he said.
The teams met on December 19 in an emotional Super League survival battle and Epac won the match to condemn Dedza to the Chipiku Premier Division League.
Dedza joined Airborne Rangers and Fisd Wizards who were already relegated at this moment.
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