Story by Nathan Makombe
CONFUSION has gripped the ZIFA Central Region Division One League following the dramatic withdrawal of Sheasham FC, who have cited alleged irregularities in the administration and officiating of the competition.
The Gweru-based side, who were sitting second on the log standings behind Hardrock FC, announced their withdrawal on Saturday evening after a 3–2 defeat to Midlands State University (MSU).
In a media briefing held this Tuesday, Sheasham FC board chairperson Mr Reginald Chidawanyika confirmed that both the men’s and women’s teams had pulled out of the ZIFA-run leagues.
“It was clear from the start that the playing environment was not conducive for fair competition. We witnessed questionable officiating and even incidents of violence from supporters. In one match, we saw an individual who was not a Grain Tigers official, accessing the referees’ room and making a payment of US$700 to match officials. We reported the matter to ZIFA but never received a response,” said Mr Chidawanyika.
The club says the lack of transparency and response from ZIFA has eroded confidence in the fairness of the league.
However, ZIFA has confirmed receiving Sheasham’s notice of withdrawal but insists that the club remains part of the league until the matter is resolved through the correct procedures.
Sheasham’s withdrawal comes at a time when the league title race had intensified, with the club trailing log leaders Hardrock by just a single point. Hardrock made headlines last week after recording a 13–0 victory over Gokwe North, a result believed to be among the highest scorelines in the league’s history.
With uncertainty hanging over Sheasham’s next fixture, all eyes are now on the football authorities to determine the next steps in resolving the impasse.
