NAIROBI, Kenya, September 3- The abandoned Kenyan Premier League (KPL) tie between Sony Sugar and Gor Mahia will be replayed on September 18 at Nakuru’s Afraha Stadium.
According to communication from the KPL, both clubs have been exonerated from blame for causing the calling off of the tempestuous fixture that saw fans invade the pitch following the controversial awarding of a Gor equaliser on 84 minutes.
“We are in receipt of the match officials reports on the above match that was stopped in the 84th minute due to the collapse of the perimeter fence and hence the safety of the players, technical bench and match officials was threatened.
“In accordance to the Rules of Kenyan Football, Rule 3.4 on Responsibilities of clubs and Rule 3.7 on abandoned matches, the match reports exonerates both teams from causing the abandonment.
“However, the match reports do confirm that the players were ready to resume play but due to the collapsed perimeter fence which enabled so many spectators of both sides inside the playing area, posing serious security risk to the playing units, match officials and technical benches, the match officials resolved to call off the match,” a letter signed by KPL CEO, Jack Oguda, addressed to the secretaries of Sony and Gor stated.
“We therefore order for a replay of the entire match to be played at Afraha Stadium, Nakuru on Wednesday, September 18 starting at 3:00pm and KPL will take control of the match arrangements.
“Further to the above, it is noted from the match reports there were incidences of misconduct and assault against the 1st Assistant Referee by Sony Sugar official and player, which will be forwarded to the Independent Disciplinary and Complaints Committee (IDCC) for appropriate disciplinary action,” Oguda’s missive added.
Sony goal keeper, William Kasaya, was accused of accosting the lineman who awarded the goal after a David Owino shot cannoned off the crossbar as Gor came behind twice to level the match.
