La Digue club, Anse Reunion FC, has lodged an official complaint following their recent match against Foresters FC, alleging ill-treatment and favouritism from match officials. The club sent the complaint directly to the President of the Seychelles Football Federation, Elvis Chetty, CEO Denis Rose, head of referees Steve Marie, competitions manager Clive Delorie, and the entire executive committee.
In the official complaint, Anse Reunion FC expressed strong dissatisfaction with the treatment received from linesman Sajid Padayachy and central referee James Emile, whom they referred to as “so-called FIFA referees.” The club raised concerns about the officials’ competence, stating that Foresters goal should not have stood due to Ryan Henriette being offside as well as the linesman inappropriately advising Foresters’ players not to make fouls.
Anse Reunion FC specifically protested the direct red card given to their player Hemshi Tuhobul, who was on the bench during the match. They criticised the lack of explanation provided by the referee or the match commissioner regarding this decision.
“We are prepared to risk being relegated to the 3rd division,” said Martin Aglae, the manager of Anse Reunion FC, highlighting the club’s determination to address the referee controversy. Seychelles Football Federation rules stipulate that missing two consecutive games results in immediate relegation to the lowest tier of league football.
The club called for a thorough investigation into the matter and demanded the establishment of a new, professional referee department. They emphasised their commitment to fairness and stated that their boycott threat was a means to protest against the alleged ill-treatment and favouritism.
The upcoming match between Anse Reunion FC and St Michel United is now uncertain, pending further developments and the response from the Seychelles Football Federation.
The allegations made in the official complaint by Anse Reunion FC shed light on the critical importance of fairness and professionalism in Seychelles football. The resolution of this matter will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of the sport in the country.
The response from the Seychelles Football Federation regarding the complaint is eagerly awaited. Updates will be provided as they become available.
