Migori Youth docked four points as NSL promotion fight takes dramatic twist

Migori Youth players congratulate Syphas Otieno (L) after scoring against Kisumu All Stars on Sunday/Migori Youth

The National Super League promotion chase took a dramatic turn ahead of the penultimate round after Migori Youth were docked points for fielding an ineligible player.

Migori Youth were docked three points and stripped of a point they got in their 1-1 draw against Kabati Youth on January 11. Migori Youth were found guilty of fielding Collins Ouma in the game against Kabati Youth and were also fined Sh100,000.

FKF Appeals Committee found Migori guilty of fielding Ouma despite not being registered with the club within the stipulated time. Consequently, Migori Youth dropped to second place on the NSL log after losing four points. Embu-based 3K FC moved to the top of the log with 73 points, the same as Migori Youth but with a superior goal difference.

Mombasa United are third with 72 points, and Equity Bank are fourth on 71 points.

However, Migori Youth have vowed to challenge the ruling. In a statement posted on their social media pages, the club disagreed with the ruling. “We remain committed to the rule of law and the established dispute resolution mechanisms. We have full confidence in available legal and regulatory processes, and we will pursue the appropriate channels to seek redress,” said the statement.

The statement added: “We, therefore, assure our fans, partners, and stakeholders that there is no cause for alarm. We remain focused on our sporting objectives and are confident that the truth, clarity, and justice will ultimately prevail.”

Following the ruling, Kabati Youth moved to 15^th on the log with 37 points, assuring themselves of survival in the NSL.

In the promotion push, 3K FC will face relegated Mwatate United on Sunday before welcoming Migori Youth in their last game of the season. 3K FC are unbeaten in 16 games under coach Nicodemus Omasete. Migori Youth host promotion-chasing rivals Equity Bank on Sunday at Awendo Green Stadium before travelling to Embu for the encounter against 3K FC.

Mombasa United have an easy run-in. On Sunday, they entertain Nzoia Sugar at KPA Mbaraki Sports Club before concluding their season against Naivas FC away. 

Equity Bank travel to Migori this weekend and will host Mwatate United in their last game at Mashuru Sports Complex on June 13. Equity Bank, coached by Benzon Benzo, are on a 14-game unbeaten run in the league so far. All the remaining two games will be played concurrently to avoid match manipulation.