Story by Sports Editor Lawrence Trusida
THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has suspended five match officials for six matches each after ruling that their officiating decisions influenced the outcomes of league fixtures.
The sanctions affect officials from the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League and Division One following reports submitted by match commissioners.
Assistant referee Phikisani Ndlovu has been suspended for six Premier Soccer League matches, from Matchday 21 to Matchday 26, following his performance during the FC Platinum versus Hunters FC fixture at Mandava Stadium on 7 June.
In the Northern Region Division One League, referee Chamunorwa Tapiwa and assistant referee Christian Gumbeze have each received six-match suspensions.
Southern Region Division One referee Graduate Mubobo and assistant referee Praise Mkwevo have also been banned for six matches.
ZIFA said the sanctions were imposed after the officials made incorrect officiating decisions that materially influenced match outcomes, in breach of Article 22 of the ZIFA Referees Code of Conduct.
