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Sports Reporter
THE Bulawayo Amateur Football Association have ordered the replay of the Townshend and Butcher tournament quarter-final between Madamara and Mpilo after a hearing held at the club’s offices on Thursday.

Mpilo played the match under protest citing irregularities with their opponents’ licences. Mpilo lost the disputed encounter 4-2.

League vice-chairman and tournament director Charles Chunda said the decision was reached after they heard evidence from both clubs as well as the referees’ report. They also analysed the match itself on their way to reaching their decision. Teams cards from both sides and licences were vetted by the league to ensure impartiality of the verdict.

“Mpilo played the quarter-final match under protest after complaining about Madamara’s licence.

“We then held a hearing on Thursday and both clubs were afforded an opportunity to present their cases.

“After reviewing the evidence and the match officials’ match report, we ordered a replay of the match,” Chunda said.

Both clubs have been served with the verdict and have agreed to comply with the ruling.

Chunda said the replay will be tomorrow at Barbourfields Stadium outside grounds. Match officials for tomorrow’s semi-finals have been instructed to be thorough in their scrutiny of licences and the vetting process ahead of kick-off. The match starts at 10am.

The winner of this match will face Rebels while the other semi-final will be contested by Golden Hotspurs and Safeguard.

Tournament sponsor Peter Leondios said he was happy with the league’s handling of the complaint and added that he remains confident that the 60 year old tournament is being played in a fair and competitive environment.

He appealed to all the clubs and players to uphold principles of fair play.