Medeama, RAG livid over DC ruling on Sharks case

Medeama FC and the Referee Association of Ghana (RAG) have slammed the Disciplinary Committee (DC) of the Ghana Football Associaiton (GFA) over its decision to have their Match Day eight Premier League game against Elmina Sharks replayed at a neutral venue, describing it as “a traversty of justice and controversial which could rather bring the game into disrepute instead of resolving issues.”

The match played at the Nduom Stadium, ended abruptly after the centre referee, Nuhu Limann was hit by an object and injured on the forward, while returning from the dressing room for the second half.

Medeama filed a protest, asking that the match be ruled in their favour per the regulations of the game, however the DC in its ruling while agreeing that the referee was injured from an object thrown from the stands, there was no need for the home team to be punished with points forfeiture, and thus ruled that the match be replayed.

In addition, Elmina Sharks have been fined GH¢5,000.00 for their misconduct in the game with Referee Liman being compensated with GH¢2,000 of that fine.

However in a sharp reaction, the Chairman of the RAG, Mr Joe Debrah described the ruling as very ‘absurd’ and indicated that it was one that could force the association to take drastic action, including a possible withdrawal from the league.

“The ruling of the DC is very absurd to say the least. How do we intend to end hooligans and end unjustified attacks on match officials with rulings like this? We are really disappointed and we probably would advise ourselves.

“I don’t think my people will be available to handle any replay of the Sharks-Medeama game. The DC officials may have to take up that role themselves,” an obviously angry Debrah told the Graphic Sports in reaction to the ruling.

He said members had pushed for a boycott of the Premier League to register their strongest objection on attacks on them, however, leadership pleaded with them to wait for the ruling and said the DC per that ruling had not only ‘treated Sharks with kids’ gloves, but stabbed the RAG in its back.’

“Now we know we are not protected by our major stakeholder and we will advise ourselves accordingly,” Ref Debrah fumed.

“How can there be different rulings for the same offence? Clubs fans misbehave and they are punished heavily, while another does the same and gets away with it. That is not fair and I’m not sure Medeama will be prepared to be part of the replay. Indeed, the points are important, but we see this ruling as criminal and we don’t want to be part of this,” an obviously angry Moses Armah, the President of the Tarkwa-based team indicated.