The Referees Association of the Western Region has thrown the football community into disarray by boycotting Saturday’s Division 2 matches in Zone 2A.
The unexpected move has left the Western Region Football Association (WRFA) scrambling to resolve the issue and salvage the remaining matches of the season.
The referees’ decision to boycott the matches stems from their demand for unpaid arrears for the first and second rounds of the season. Frustrated by the lack of payment, the referees took a stand by refusing to officiate the scheduled matches, catching WRFA by surprise.
As a result of the boycott, all the teams slated to play were left in limbo, with WRFA urging them to return home as efforts were made to address the situation.
With only two matches remaining to conclude the season, the sudden disruption has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the league’s conclusion.
In response to the referees’ action, WRFA has assured stakeholders that they are actively engaging with the referees to resolve the outstanding payment issues.
The association is working tirelessly to find a resolution that would allow the matches to be played as soon as possible, ensuring the smooth completion of the season.
The unexpected boycott serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by grassroots football organizations in managing finances and maintaining operational stability.
It underscores the importance of timely and transparent payment practices to ensure the smooth functioning of football leagues and the welfare of all stakeholders involved.
As the Western Region Football Association works to address the referees’ grievances and restore normalcy to the league, football fans and stakeholders are hopeful for a swift resolution that would allow the remaining matches to proceed without further delay.
In the meantime, the football community remains on standby, eager for a positive outcome that would uphold the integrity and spirit of the beautiful game in the Western Region.
