In a recent ruling by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Disciplinary Panel, Onduparaka FC and Soroti Thunders FC have been handed a suspended deduction of three points and three goals for failing to honour their respective Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 64 matches. The decision comes as a stern warning to both clubs, emphasizing the importance of adhering to FUFA Competitions Rules and Regulations.
The incidents occurred on 16th January 2025, when Onduparaka FC failed to show up for their match against Bushenyi Veterans FC, while Soroti Thunders FC did not appear for their fixture against Black Power FC. Both clubs were found to have violated Article 15 (37) of the FUFA Competitions Rules, which mandates that clubs must fulfil their scheduled fixtures unless under exceptional circumstances approved by the governing body.
The FUFA Disciplinary Panel (FDP) announced that the deduction of three points and three goals will remain suspended. However, the penalty will be immediately imposed in the respective leagues of Onduparaka FC and Soroti Thunders FC if either club fails to honour another Uganda Cup match in the future. This decision serves as a conditional punishment, urging both teams to uphold their commitments in the competition.
In addition to the suspended sanctions, both clubs have been issued a strong caution against further violations of FUFA rules. The FDP warned that any repeat offenses would result in stricter penalties, potentially affecting their standings in ongoing or future competitions.
Onduparaka FC, a prominent club in the Ugandan football scene, and Soroti Thunders FC, a rising team, now face increased scrutiny as they continue their campaigns in their respective leagues. The suspended penalty serves as a reminder of the consequences of failing to comply with FUFA regulations, which are designed to maintain the integrity and smooth running of football competitions in the country.
The ruling has sparked mixed reactions among football enthusiasts and stakeholders. While some have praised FUFA for taking a firm stance against unprofessional conduct, others have called for a review of the circumstances that led to the no-shows. Questions have been raised about whether the clubs faced logistical or financial challenges that prevented them from honouring their fixtures.
The FDP’s decision sends a clear message to all clubs participating in FUFA-sanctioned competitions. Failure to adhere to the rules and regulations will not be tolerated, and stringent measures will be taken to ensure compliance. This move is expected to encourage greater accountability and professionalism among Ugandan football clubs.
As the Stanbic Uganda Cup progresses, all eyes will be on Onduparaka FC and Soroti Thunders FC to see how they respond to this disciplinary action. Both clubs will need to demonstrate their commitment to the competition and avoid any further breaches that could jeopardize their standings in their respective leagues.
For now, the suspended penalty remains a sword of Damocles hanging over the two clubs, serving as a reminder of the importance of honouring fixtures and respecting the rules of the game.
Stay tuned to Daily West Nile Info for more updates on this story and other developments in Ugandan football.
Join the Daily West Nile WhatsApp group now to never miss an update from us.Download Host Media Now from the Play Store to watch HostTV, listen to Host Radio Live, and stay informed—all in one convenient app!
