Mutare docked 3 points, fined

PREMIERSHIP newboys Mutare City have been docked three points for the use of suspended player Kudakwashe Gurure in a league match against FC Platinum two weeks ago. The club have also been fined $1 250 which they should pay by September 10. In that game at Mandava, Mutare City drew 1-1 with FC Platinum. According to the Premier Soccer League, the club contravened Order 33.4 of the PSL Rules and Regulations which states that "where a player has accumulated three yellow cards he shall automatically be suspended for one official match . . . such suspension should be applicable on the next official match".

The club were found guilty on the basis of Order 36.1.4 which states that " . . . the use of an unregistered/ineligible player, three points will be deducted and thrown away and a fine as set by the League from time to time (imposed)".

The club said they used the player as they didn't see communication from the PSL relating the suspension of their players as their computers were down. Coach Taku Shariwa's charges have been very consistent in the second half of the league where they are yet to lose a match.

This afternoon they face CAPS United at the National Sports Stadium. After the deduction of points, the team which is third from bottom, is now left with 17 points. Their setback may be good news to fellow relegation fighters like Tsholotsho and Border Strikers, who both have 13 points with the Beitbridge anchoring the table because of an inferior goal difference.