The Western Football Association (WFA) has underscored the importance of adhering to the FIFA Fair Play Code of Conduct following a breach during the ongoing 2025 Solomon Cup that has stirred strong emotions nationwide recently
Speaking to Star Sports in an interview on Monday night, WFA President John Smith Pitabelama said, the incident involving the match between Makira Kakamora and Western Tomoko — which was forfeited due to the fielding of guest players by Makira highlights the critical role of compliance and regulation in the game.
“This is not about undermining another team, but about maintaining the integrity and compliance of the game in line with its laws and regulations,” Pitabelama said.
He explained that WFA had raised the matter with the appropriate disciplinary committee.
“After lodging our petition, the issue was no longer ours to handle — it was up to the responsible authorities to address the breach,” he stated.
While acknowledging the impact the decision has had, particularly on Choiseul Province, Pitabelama noted that affected parties have the right to appeal, although in this case, the ruling was not in their favor.
“Tomoko’s actions might not please everyone, but we have not committed any wrongdoing,” he emphasized.
The WFA president called on football stakeholders and fans to set aside differences and focus on unity for the development of the sport in the country.
“To anyone we may have upset about, I ask that we forgive each other, reconcile, and choose peace over hate and love over disunity as we move forward,” he said.
Pitabelama who is also the newly elected Vice President of SIFF in Governance further described the petition that triggered the controversy as a historic precedent in Solomon Islands football.
“This incident has shaken SIFF, provincial football associations, and the football community across the country,” he added.
“It reminds us of the need to strengthen technical approaches, governance, transparency, and integrity in football — starting from SIFF to PFAs and athletes nationwide.”
Meanwhile, today’s first semi-finals will Guadalcanal Hornets face Makira Kakamora, followed by Malaita Eagles against Western Tomoko in the second.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
