Why Shabana risk playing matches without fans
8th October 2023
The Kisii-based cite received a warning from FKF over the conduct of their supporters.
- According to a communique issued by FKF, Shabana fans have invaded the pitch on a couple of occasions.
- FKF termed the behavior as disruptive and dangerous, urging the club’s management to act with immediacy.
- Failure to do so may invite fines, docking of points and playing behind closed doors on the club.
By Tony Kipkorir
Newly-promoted Shabana FC are at risk of playing
some matches behind closed doors if they fail to control the behavior of their
supporters.
According to a communique issued by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) on Saturday evening 7 October 2023, fans of the 22/23 National Super League champions have invaded the pitch on a couple of occasions, inviting the warning from the governing body.
“FKF would like to bring to your attention a matter of concern regarding the behaviour of a section of your fans during recent FKF-PL matches.
“It has been noted and reported by the FKF safety and security department that there have been instances of a section of your fans throwing objects and invading the pitch during celebrations,” part of the press release read.
Also Read: Super Omalla strikes twice as Gor Mahia add more salt to wounded Leopards
FKF also termed the supporters' behaviour as disruptive and dangerous, urging the club’s management to act with immediacy.
“We would like to remind you that the actions of your fans reflect upon the club and the league at large. And it is the responsibility of the club’s management to ensure that the fans conduct themselves in a respectful and sportsmanlike manner,” the statement continued.
Should the Kisii-based side fail to address the concern promptly, it would face severe consequences which may include and are not limited to the deductions of points, and imposition of hefty fines.
Moreover, the club which occupies the 14th
position on the league standings after the completion of week 6 fixtures might
be forced to play games without behind closed doors.
"Please be aware that any further instances of such behavior will result in severe consequences. These may include imposition of fines on the club, playing matches behind closed doors and deduction of points from your team's standing in the league," FKF noted.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over 326 Million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
Despite the stern warning, FKF also acknowledged the immense hype that Shabana has brought to the topflight league, lauding the electrifying hype and passion of their fans.
The club emerged victorious in their match over the weekend, beating former champions Tusker FC 1-0 in Nairobi. The goal came in the 70th minute courtesy of Vincent Nyabuto’s bullet header.
Shabana is scheduled to play 9th placed side Nairobi City Stars on after the international break.