Violence erupts at Lotha Football Championship; ERSA and NRSA suspended

WOKHA — The Wokha District Football Association (WDFA) has suspended Englan Range SA (ERSA) and Nyiro Range SA (NRSA) for one year, with immediate effect, after violence broke between fans of the two football clubs during their quarter-final match on January 27.

The fight broke out when some supporters invaded the pitch about 65 minutes into the game and when the scoreline of the teams was even at 1-1, forcing the security personnel to intervene and end the clash. Minor injuries and damage to WDFA properties were reported.

After deliberation in connection with the untoward incident, the WDFA barred the two teams from participating in its tournament for a year, in “accordance with By-Laws Point No. 12 under Clause One of the 13th Lotha Football Championship 2024”.

“The decision was taken in the presence of both the team management and WDFA officials, whereby agreed to abide by the laid down regulation of the organising committee,” read the suspension note.

The WDFA clarified that the clash was solely among the crowd (supporters) and not related to the association or its management.

The quarter-final matches of the ongoing 13th edition of the Lotha Football Championship (LFC) were scheduled to be held on January 27 and the 29th.

Also read: Lotha Football Championship: XI Brothers, Titans XI, ERSA, Friends Club, Lower Senchum through to quarter-finals