FAZ warns unruly soccer fans

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 09:06:59 +0000

…..we won’t hesitate to ban clubs for hooliganism – Katongo

By Michael Miyoba

FAZ will not hesitate to ban supporters or clubs that indulge in behavior that does not promote the spirit of fair play, Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) communications manager Desmond Katongo has said.

Katongo noted that FAZ has zero tolerance towards hooliganism from any football club and will not ‘‘dilly dally’’ in bestowing disciplinary action against erring clubs.

Katongo said that there was need for clubs to sensitize their supporters on the dangers of hooliganism both to human life and property.

“FAZ has zero tolerance towards hooliganism from any football club and will not hesitate to dispense disciplinary action against erring clubs. We will not hesitate to ban supporters or clubs that indulge in behavior that doesn’t promote the spirit of fair play,” he said.

“All football clubs will be held accountable for their fans’ conduct,” he added.

Katongo said that FAZ has instituted investigations into the conduct of Nkana Football Club supporters during last Sunday’s Samuel ‘‘Zoom’’ Ndhlovu Charity Shield final which Nkana lost 2-0 to Zesco United at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola where fans threw bottles on the pitch after a Nkana player was sent off. “As FAZ, we deplore the unruly behavior exhibited by Nkana Football Club supporters during last Sunday’s final which Nkana lost 2-0.

“FAZ is currently working closely with the Zambia Police Service and the match commissioner in compiling the necessary evidence. The association will decide on the precise action to take in accordance with the disciplinary code,” Katongo said.

Meanwhile, the Zambia Football Fans Association (ZAFFA) has welcomed the move by FAZ to probe the conduct of Nkana supporters during last Sunday’s Charity Shield final.

ZAFFA general secretary Chawezi Katwizi noted that the behavior by both the players and their fans was unacceptable.

Katwizi urged Nkana coach Zeddy Saileti to instill discipline in his players to prevent them from being unruly.

“As ZAFFA we condemn the behavior by Nkana F.C. fans who resorted to throwing objects unto the pitch when Malama was sent off during the Charity Chield final. Walter Bwalya’s behavior was also inappropriate. He is a role model and should behave as one. As a player he should inspire upcoming players who look up to him by showing leadership on the pitch.

“Fans should also learn to respect referees. A ref should not be intimidated. There are normal channels to follow when a team is aggrieved instead of behaving the way they did. Football is a unifying factor which should bring people together whether a team wins or loses,” Katwizi said.