Frustrated Ambani hits out at FKF over claims of mismanaging NSL matches

©Mara Sugar

FOOTBALL: Frustrated Ambani hits out at FKF over claims of mismanaging NSL matches

Kiplagat Sang • 06:00 - 11.07.2023

The former Yanga SC forward has picked instances where he says it raises more questions than answers.

Mara Sugar technical director Bonface Ambani has criticized the Football Kenya Federation for how crucial matches were handled in the National Super League.

Apart from the title race, the promotion contest, especially the playoff race, raised eyebrows. Mara Sugar and Migori Youth were in a tight contest for third place - which guarantees passage to the Premier League via playoff, and eventually, the Migori County club prevailed.

While raising concerns about how some crucial matches were conducted, Ambani blamed the country's FA.

"Shabana vs Kisumu All Stars match and Gusii vs Murang'a Seal were two very crucial matches. Two matches were deciders of who wins the league. It ended up being Shabana who carried the day. The Mwatate vs Mara Sugar and Migori vs Mully Children FC matches were two more crucial matches," Ambani said in a social media post.

"The outcome led to who would play Wazito in the playoffs. MCF decided not to travel to honour that match. As Mara Sugar, we said thanks to MCF for making it easy for Migori to sail to the playoffs.

"Mara fought its war and won squarely on the pitch. I told the boys they did their level best. The rest is history. One day, history will judge itself."

The retired footballer looked back and picked out matches that he thought were not conducted in a sporting manner.

"Three seasons ago, when Mara were fighting for a slot to get to the NSL, Muhoroni Youth were supposed to travel for a crucial match against Luanda Villa. They never travelled. The difference between Luanda Villa and Mara was just a point. Mara were facing St. Joseph's of Nakuru," he continued.

"Luckily enough, we won again, 1-0, with a goal coming in the dying minutes of the match. If we couldn't have won that match, Luanda Villa would sail smoothly without sweat to the NSL.

"My question is, what precedent are we setting in our leagues? You are the judges. One day, at one time, FKF will be led by people with high levels of integrity. Time will tell. For now, you guys can run the business as usual. No worries. As Mara Sugar, we have accepted the outcome. You can proceed with the playoffs.

"One day, cancer will eat itself. All in all, once more, Tore Bobe and Murang'a Seals Congratulations...... You won it squarely. I wish you well in the KPL next season."

Two big matches remain on the football calendar: Wazito and Migori Youth will battle it out for the remaining Premier League slot.

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