Soccer News of Thursday, 21 August 2003

Source: GNA

GFA warns coaches

Accra, Aug 21, GNA-- The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has said it will deal severely with any coach found to be behaving in an unsporting and provocative manner likely to bring the game of football into disrepute.

In a statement signed by Mr Ben Koufie, Chairman of the GFA, coaches have been warned to remain strictly in their technical areas and display high sense of responsibility and objectivity during football matches.

The statement said the GFA is concerned about the extent of violent behaviours of some coaches, club officials and players during the league and will not hesitate to imposed due sanctions on them.

According to the statement, club which also fail to go to designated areas for inspection will be sanctioned within 48 hours after the match adding that clubs must also desist from sprinkling concoctions on the field of play before and after matches since it is against the regulations of the GFA.

The statement added that henceforth only boys and girls within the ages of 10-12, must be allowed to serve as ball boys at the league centres and must be given specific instructions not to interfere with play or disturb goalkeepers.

The GFA said police have been given the mandate to arrest spectators who throw water sachets at opponents adding that stadiums noted for violent incidents will be closed down instantly without fear or favour.

The statement further warned referees and match commissioners that any action of theirs found to be below standard would be met with the wrath of the association.

It said independent observers will be sent to all league centres to give their views on matches and assured the general public that all measures will be taken to ensure that peace prevails before, during and after football matches.