GhanaFA

Ghana FA chiefs interact with Dwarfs fans

12 years ago
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Ghana football authorities have a friendly meeting with angry Dwarfs fans on Saturday during their working visiting of the Central Region.

The fans were planning to protest against the GFA's visit to Cape Coast in the wake of a temporary GFA-ban imposed on the Robert Mensah after Dwarfs fans attacked referees during a recent match.

But a charm offensive by Ghana FA boss Kwesi Nyantakyi persuaded the fans to come to the table for talks which yielded positive dividends.

Even more intriguing was the gift given to Nyantakyi by the fans of the club as the snarling mob turned into a dancing crowd.

The meeting was attended by fans of Dwarfs and their leaders as well as Ghana FA executive members who assured them that the GFA is fair in its dealings.

Citing Article 15.2, Nyantakyi explained to the fans that the decision to stop GFA-organised matches at the stadium was a precautionary measure but not a punishment.

"I want to assure all of you that the GFA is not against Dwarfs. There are some security lapses which must be sorted out so we don't want to lose any lives," Nyantakyi told the crowd.

"The disciplinary committee will meet to take a decision on the fate of Dwarfs but I will assure you that disciplinary committee is independent and fair.

"I want to plead with the fans to go to the stadium and enjoy the game not to create confusion. The acting of a few individuals can lead to bad consequences for your team."

Leaders of the Dwarfs supporters union Mr Sackey issued a groveling apology to the GFA, the affected referees and Ghanaians.

He praised the GFA for reaching out to them and pleaded for clemency for their club following the attack on referee Kyeremanteng.

Sackey says they are embarking on an educational campaign to teach their fans that violence has no part in matches.

"We didn't know the GFA bosses were this humble. The move has really helped to ease the tension as there was so much speculation in the air," Sackey said.

"People said a lot of things about the GFA which we now realise is not the truth. We want to apologise for our actions and call on the GFA’s disciplinary committee to be lenient when punishment is meted out.

"We know we deserve to be punished but we are calling for mercy. We want to assure you that it will not happen again."