Shabana to appeal against Otienos one-year ban

Gusii-based Shabana FC has termed the one-year ban on their player Samuel Otieno excessive and are considering appealing the decision.

Football Federation of Kenya (FKF) slapped the punishment on Otieno after investigations confirmed the player had assaulted the referee during their National Super League clash against Modern Coast Ranger FC two weeks ago.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Organizing Secretary; Stephen Kiama said management is discussing the matter and would soon lodge an appeal.

“Our player Otieno was given a straight red card and later banned for a year but up to now we don’t understand how the decision was reached and that’s why we will appeal. Even the video clip that was recorded during the match doesn’t show Otieno assaulting the referee as alleged,” the official declared.

Shabana held on to draw 1-1 for their first points of the season where Otieno was cited for head butting the first assistant in their NSL fixture against Modern played on June 19 at the Mombasa Sports Club.

“We are in receipt of the centre referee’s and match Commissioner’s report for match number 41 Modern Coast versus Shabana FC.

“In the report, the referee stated that during the 83rd minute, Shabana FC player Samuel Otieno License number 1257 head butted the first assistant referee and was sent off for violent conduct,” part of the statement signed by FKF CEO Robert Muthomi announcing the suspension on June 23 read in part.

In a bid to improve their fortunes in the second leg of the NSL, the team has secured the services of experienced campaigners in the just closed transfer window.

Former Chemelil Sugar striker, Dennis Onkangi, ex-Bandari player Bruno Sserunkuma and Muhoroni Youth’s Demonde Serenga who once turned out for AFC Leopards have joined the club.

Eric Wafula, Godfrey Naibei and former Leopards Under-19 skipper; Geofrey Okeya have also signed for the former top flight giants.

The team is still searching for a new coach with Kiama adding their planned fundraiser will be held at the end of the month.

Shabana are placed at the bottom of the NSL with only nine points after securing their second successive draw in a 2-2 stalemate against fellow strugglers, Ligi Ndogo.

They welcome sixth placed Sharks in their adopted Awendo Green Stadium home over the weekend.

Tags:

Shabana FC football Robert Muthomi Dennis Onkangi Samuel Otieno

Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.

latest stories