(CMR) The Cayman Islands Football Association (CIFA) has issued a statement in relation to the attack of a central referee last night of the Cayman Premier League match Academy SC vs. Bodden Town FC played at The Annex Field. CMR first reported the incident shortly after it happened.
CIFA has now confirmed that they intend to discipline parties involved and that this is a stain on the reputation of football in the Cayman. Sharing that it is “an outrageous offense” CIFA is suspending all players involved in the altercation with immediate effect. They will not be permitted to attend any CIFA matches in any capacity including as spectators. Additionally, there will be a hearing by the CIFA Disciplinary Committee and all Cayman Premier League matches involving Bodden Town FC have been suspended.
CIFA has stressed they are taking the incident seriously and that they:
“would like to emphasize to all football stakeholders that acts of violence will not be tolerated and one of the prime objectives of the national football body is to protect the safety and integrity of the game, match officials, participants, and public in general. The CIFA can guarantee that all disciplinary actions will be taken at its full extent.”
CMR understands that the referee is recovering from the incident where he sustained bruises and scrapes but no broken bones.
Some of the responses on social media appeared to condone the behavior claiming the referees are to blame because of questionable calls:
However, others found the assault deplorable and even called for a ban on the Bodden Town club who they claim have a reputation for doing this:
- Fascinated
- Happy
- Sad
- Angry
- Bored
- Afraid
