St Kitts football association probes brawl that caused President’s Cup abandonment

BASSETERRE, St Kitts (CMC):

A HIGHLY anticipated President’s Cup match between S.L. Horsfords St Paul’s United FC and Rams Village Superstars FC was abandoned at half-time on Sunday night following a large-scale on-field brawl, prompting an immediate investigation from the St Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA).

In a strongly worded statement, the SKNFA condemned the violence that forced the premature end of the fixture, calling it “wholly unacceptable”.

“The altercation stands in direct contradiction to the values of respect, discipline, and fair play that the association promotes,” the statement read.

The SKNFA confirmed it has launched an immediate investigation, and that “all players, officials, and other participants involved in the brawl will be subjected to the appropriate disciplinary process”.

Reaffirming its “zero-tolerance policy toward violence”, the association also issued a sincere apology to fans in attendance.

“We recognise the disappointment caused by this unfortunate disruption,” the statement continued, pledging to ensure future matches provide a “safe and enjoyable environment for all”.

The incident has drawn the attention of the nation’s highest office. Prime Minister Dr Terrance M. Drew announced early Monday that he has intervened to help mediate the conflict.

“I have spoken with the presidents of the Village Superstars and St Paul’s United football teams, as well as officials from the St Kitts and Nevis Football Association,” Dr Drew stated in a social media post.

The prime minister has offered his office to facilitate reconciliation talks, emphasising that “violence has no place in our sports or among our people”. He urged support for the players “as they work to resolve this matter in the spirit of harmony, respect, and togetherness”.