PFAJ levies RSPL final punishment
THE PROFESSIONAL Football Association of Jamaica (PFAJ) has issued Waterhouse with a $150,000 fine and a six match probation for fan violence during their Red Stripe Premier League final against Portmore United at the National Stadium on Monday, April 29. Waterhouse’s fans were guilty of throwing objects and invading the field during the game.
Waterhouse forward Rafiek Thomas was also fined $25,000 and a six match suspension for fighting Portmore’s Damian Williams during the match.
Williams was handed a $10,000 fine and will serve a two match suspension for his part in the incident. Waterhouse mascot, Damion ‘Eptic’ Lewis was also fined $25,000 and given a six match ban for ‘disorderliness’.
Waterhouse was charged with breaching Article 8 par 7b, which addresses a lack of discipline inside and outside grounds and “disorderliness at matches.” The club will serve a six match probation period (home and away games) commencing at the start of the 2019-2020 RSPL season, and should there be any repeat or similar incident, consideration may be given to a stadium ban or a region ban without spectators.
Thomas was found to be in breach of articles 41, 48, 49 and 50 for violent conduct. Williams was reprimanded for breaching article 41 (violent conduct), while Lewis breached article 8 par 7b (disorderliness at matches).
LEWIS SUSPENDED
Lewis has been suspended from all PFAJ sanctioned football related activities for six matches (home and otherwise), commencing at the start of next season.
Though he may choose to attend games during this period, he cannot be associated with the game as a mascot, or in any similar function during his suspension. He will also not be allowed to enter the field before and during games without permission.
Should there appear to be a breach of this strict directive, Waterhouse FC may be considered as facilitating an offence as stated in article 8.1, article 10.1, and article 55.1 and 55.2 of the Rules and Regulations.