Malawi referee banned for life: Civo booted out by Master Security in Pres Cup

A referee has been banned from officiating for life after officiation controversy in the Presidential Cup match involving elite league side Civo United and their lower league opponents Masters Security which was abandoned.

National Referees Association has imposed the lifetime ban on Roy Williams for brining the game into disrepurte.

“He failed to observe the laws of the game,” said Referees general secretary Chris Kalichero.

He said Williams is not a first offender as he had served nine months ban last year on officiation controversy.

Williams, admitted he had been subject of ban when contacted by Nyasa Times. But he denied bringing the game of football into disrepute.

The second round  encounter involving Civo and Master Security  was abandoned in the 28th minute as the hosts, Civo, were leading 2-0.

According to the committee, reports presented by Williams and match coordinator Pyson Likagwa, the referee contradicted himself in the report and that he was incompetent enough in officiating the game as he made inconsistent decisions.

The report also lacked substance on what led to the abandonment of the match according to the determination signed by Fam General Secretary Suzgo Nyirenda.

The match was replayed on Monday and Civo were booted out by a goal to nil. Master Security have now booked a date with Moyale Barracks.

TNM Super League champions Nyasa Big Bullets and Silver Strikers will clash in the Presidential Cup last 16 if the Bankers sail past table toppling Blue Eagles.

Bullets’ rivals, Be Forward Wanderers, have been drawn against Malawi Defence Force (MDF) side Red Lions.

Wizards FC have been paired against fellow Super League outfit Max Bullets who beat lower league side Hard Knockers 11-1.

Other top-flight league sides Epac and Dwangwa United will play host to lower league teams Dululu FC and Rumphi Pirates, respectively whereas Kabwafu will engage Mchengautuba FC.

The last 16 matches will be played this weekend.