By Kei Emmanuel Duku
South Sudan National League’s organizing committee has taken disciplinary action against Al-Salam FC, following an abandoned match against Al-Merriekh FC Bentiu on Sunday.
The incident involved Al-Salam FC fans, who invaded the pitch during a game that was played on May 19th at Wau Stadium.
Al-Merriekh FC held a 2-0 lead when the fan intrusion disrupted the game in the 78th minute, ultimately forcing its abandonment.
Based on match officials’ reports submitted to the committee, Al-Salam FC was found to have violated Article 78 of South Sudan General Regulations 2012 (Amended 2019).
A meeting held at SSFA headquarters in Juba resulted in the committee ruling Al-Salam FC as the loser and awarding a 2-0 victory to Al-Merriekh FC.
“Al-Salam FC is deemed to have lost the game by 2-0 and forfeits its share of the match income,” reads a statement from the SSFA media page. “Al-Merriekh FC is officially the winner of the match.”
Citing Article 50(c), the SSFA reiterated the potential consequences of violence. Any player, club administrator, or fan involved in such acts during, before, or after a match can face repercussions.
The national football governing body also emphasized that clubs whose fans cause disruptions risk a three-year suspension.
The SSFA urged Al-Salam FC fans to maintain composure and adhere to competition rules.