NNL Fines Joy Cometh ₦1Million, Bans Head Coach, General Manager

NNL Fines Joy Cometh ₦1Million, Bans Head Coach, General Manager

By Gbenga Gboyega

The management of the Nigeria National League has released a statement of sanctions about an abandoned game on MatchDay 10 between Ijebu United and Joy Cometh FC at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The publication came after Joy Cometh FC appeared to protest against a goal scored by the home team ÃŒjebu United as offside, to the deaf ears of the center referee who counted the goal.

This made the away side - Joy Cometh FC, refuse all attempts to continue the game which was in the 88th minute, plus a proposed 3+ minute added on in extra time.

The NNL Committee adjudged the behavior as "a deliberate one capable of bringing the game to disrepute", and consequently sanctioned the club, the players, the head coach, and the general manager accordingly.

Full Statement: "Decisions Of Nigeria National League On The Abandoned Match At Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode"

After a thorough investigation of the case of abandoned Matchday 10(Ten) reported in the final group B2 Southern Conference match between home side Ijebu United and Joy Cometh FC, Nigeria National League establishes as follows:

1. That Joy Cometh FC protested against a goal they considered offside.

2. That effort by the match officials and Representative of NNL present to have the match continue with the remaining 2(Two) minutes plus 3(Three) additional minutes proved abortive.

3. That the action of Joy Cometh FC is seen as a deliberate one capable of bringing the game to disrepute.

And following provisions of article 14.8 of NNL rules book i. Joy Cometh FC shall pay the sum of N1,000,000.00 (One million Naira) only for abandoning the match.

Ii. That General Manager and Chief Coach of Joy Cometh FC: Messrs Segun Ajiroba and Jide Oguntuase are banned for four league matches.

iii. That Ijebu United are winners of the match and are awarded 3 points and 3 goals."

Joy Cometh FC is expected to respond to the sanctions within a stipulated timeframe, and in case of no appeal, pay the fine, and serve the suspensions.