The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has decided in favor of Nadi in their protest against Navua for fielding an ineligible player in their recent Extra Premier League (EPL) match at Uprising Sports Complex. As a result, the match points have been awarded to Nadi, reflecting the adherence to league regulations regarding player eligibility.
Fiji FA CEO Mohammed Yusuf confirmed the swift resolution of the protest, which Nadi submitted early on Monday. The controversy arose because Navua played with a suspended player, a clear breach of league rules. In response, the Fiji FA’s Integrity Committee is tasked with investigating the circumstances leading to this oversight, with their findings to be discussed in the upcoming board meeting on Saturday.
This ruling impacts the league standings, granting Nadi three points and taking them away from Navua. It highlights the essential nature of upholding player eligibility to ensure the integrity of the competition remains intact. The Fiji FA has long been committed to maintaining strict regulatory compliance, as exhibited in past situations where similar infractions led to point deductions across various districts.
In further developments, Yusuf revealed that one Premier Division team and five Senior Division teams are facing sanctions due to unfinished regional club competitions. These penalties are to be implemented after next month’s FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC) in Ba. Additionally, Bua and Northland Tailevu have been disqualified from this year’s IDC for failing to comply with regional league rules. The IDC pool draw is scheduled for today in Suva.
These actions underline the Fiji FA’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment of fair play and ensuring the rules are applied consistently across all competitions. By holding teams accountable and promoting compliance, the Fiji FA continues to nurture a competitive and respectful atmosphere in Fijian football.