BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - AS a result of a fight between two members of the Federation’s Senior Men’s Football Team during their CFU Caribbean Cup clash with Haiti last Sunday, the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA) has launched an investigation into the embarrassing situation.
In a recent press release, the SKNFA offered an apology to the public expressing its disappointment over the two players’ behaviour.
“The executive of the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association takes this opportunity to express its regret to the general public for the fracas that occurred between two members of the St. Kitts and Nevis Senior Men’s National Football Team in its encounter with the team representing Haiti, during the CFU Caribbean Cup match held at the Warner Park Football Stadium on Sunday, 13th November.
“The executive records its disappointment with this type of behaviour and wishes to assure the general public that necessary and established investigative protocols are being followed to ensure appropriate disciplinary action is taken in the wake of the unfortunate incident.”
The match between the two teams had headed into extra time following a stalemate (nil-all) at regulation time.
The Haitians had frustrated the Sugar Boys on a number occasions and scored their first goal in the 12th minute of extra time, which led to a physical confrontation between the goalkeeper and one of his teammates during the halftime break.
In the release, the SKNFA sought to reassure fans that they continue to foster an environment of dialogue among players and teams, and makes available management structures that facilitate resolution of player disputes or disagreements.
“The SKNFA frowns upon players taking matters to the point of unruly behaviour between team members or with other teams,” the release read.
It continued: “And, in keeping with our commitment to accountability and openness, the SKNFA assures the general public that the findings of the investigation and subsequent actions will be revealed to the public in due course.”
This public apology comes several days before the Sugar Boys are scheduled for a return encounter with Estonia at the same venue in an international friendly game.
Because of the display on Sunday, last, there is the threat of many fans not turning out to witness the encounter. However, Vice President of the SKNFA, Al Edwards told media representatives that the team would feature a number of young players.
Despite being eliminated from the Caribbean Cup and missing out on qualification for the CONCACAF Gold Cup, the Sugar Boys are optimistic about their game against Estonia on Saturday (Nov. 19).
