The Pedzisai ‘Scott’ Sakupwanya owned Scottland FC have been officially declared the 2024 Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) champions following a ruling by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Appeals Committee on Thursday.
The decision came after a dispute involving Scottland FC and Karoi United.
The Appeals Committee upheld the NRSL Disciplinary Committee’s ruling, awarding Scottland a 3-0 victory for the abandoned match.
With this ruling, Scottland are now the official champions of the NRSL and they will be playing in the top flight league next season.
The NRSL announced the verdict in a statement issued on Thursday.
“We have taken note of the decision of the ZIFA Appeals committee in reference to the abandoned match between Karoi United FC and Scottland FC.
“The Appeals committee upheld the decision of the NRSL Disciplinary committee, wherein Karoi United FC was found guilty for causing the abandonment of the match, and consequently the match was awarded to Scottland FC on a 3-0 scoreline.
“This judgement is a vindication of our disciplinary committee. We are of the firm belief that the decision is in line with all known football Rules and Regulations and in the spirit of fair play,” the NRSL announced in a statement.
“We hope that this will bring closure to the issue and that henceforth our members and stakeholders will move forward and prepare for the forthcoming season.
“We thank you all for your patience and understanding during this entire process.”
Meanwhile, Scottland are active in the market, signing some of the league’s stars including top goal scorer Lynoth Chikuhwa, Peter Muduhwa, Mthokozisi Msebe, Talbert Shumba, Vassil Kawe, Walter Musona as well as Khama Billiat.
