Basake Holy Stars Football Club have successfully won their protest against Elmina Sharks FC for fielding an unqualified player during their Access Bank Division One League Week 25 match held in Elmina. The original game ended in a 1-0 victory for Elmina Sharks, courtesy of a penalty scored by Alhassan Adamu.
However, following the protest by Holy Stars, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has ruled in favor of the challengers. The ruling has led to Basake Holy Stars being awarded the three points from the match, while Elmina Sharks have been deducted three points.
Additionally, Elmina Sharks have been fined GH₵2,500, half of which will be paid to Holy Stars. Furthermore, Elmina Sharks, as the home side, are ordered to pay an additional GH₵1,000 to Basake Holy Stars.
The victory in the protest significantly impacts the league standings, propelling Holy Stars to the top of Zone Two with 47 points, now leading by two points ahead of second-placed New Edubiase United FC, with just three games remaining in the season.
Elmina Sharks have already filed an appeal against the decision, which could further affect the final standings as the season nears its climax. This development marks a crucial turning point in the race for promotion, intensifying the competition in the final stretch of the league.
The awarded points and fines reflect the GFA’s commitment to maintaining fair play and adherence to league regulations, setting a precedent for future cases involving player eligibility and match conduct.
