Aizawl demands dues after AIFF imposes hefty fine

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) disciplinary committee today imposed a fine of ~3 lakh on reigning I-League champions Aizawl FC for crowd violence during their home match against Mohun Bagan on January 25 but the club snapped back, demanding they be paid last year’s dues before being asked to pay a fine.

A five-member disciplinary committee headed by eminent lawyer Usha Nath Banerjee found Aizawl FC “guilty” and asked the Mizoram club to pay the fine before their match against Indian Arrows on February 23. The AIFF also threatened to conduct matches “closed doors” if Aizawl did not undertake in writing that they will take responsibility for the safety, security and peace at the stadium.

Club president Robert Royte, attacked the parent body after attending the meeting. “The AIFF owes us ~57 lakh that includes runners-up prize money of the 2015-16 Federation Cup, some Man of the Match awards and and travelling allowances,” Royte told a news conference.

“As an owner and president of the club, I demand that the AIFF should also clear the pending dues. Then we will see how to pay the fine.

“Regarding the quantum and amount of the fine, I’ve to discuss with my colleagues whether we will go for an appeal or not. We have to follow the rules.”

An AIFF official said all dues will be cleared by the end of the ongoing fiscal.

KOLKATA:

CHENNAI CITY HELD

Chennai City and Shillong Lajong played out a hard-fought goalless draw in their I-League match here .

Shillong Lajong remained at fifth spot with 18 points from 16 matches. Chennai City are ninth with 13 points from 15 matches. Monday’s match: Mohun Bagan vs Gokulam Kerala FC

COIMBATORE: