The Lauru Football Association (LFA) has accused the Solomon Island Football Federation (SIFF) appeal committee of failing to inform them about the appeal fee requirement, leading to the dismissal of their appeal.
In a statement LFA said, their appeal was lodged within the prescribed time-frame. However, the committee ruled the appeal was inadmissible due to non-payment of required appeal fee of $200 as stipulated in SIFF regulation.
LFA lodged its appeal within the official time-frame but the committee stated that the non-payment meant it could not proceed to hear the case, leaving the original SIFF disciplinary committee decision in place.
“LFA was not informed about the appeal fee requirement at the time the protest was forwarded to the appropriate committee.
“The initial communication we received from the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) only confirmed that our protest has been received and forwarded to the relevant SIFF committee for determination.
“At no point were we informed of any appeal fee being required before the appeal could be considered admissible,” the statement said.
LFA also noted that despite previous request directly to the SIFF leadership, including the CEO for governance documents and procedural guidelines, such as those related to the appeals disciplinary matter.
According to LFA, no such documents were provided.
“We were only issued the basic competition regulations at the start of the tournament, lacking further guidance on appeal procedures, fees or requirements,” LFA said.
LFA also reiterated that their appeal was submitted in good faith, driven by interest of fairness and clarity, particularly for their players, officials and supporters who have stood behind the team with unwavering loyalty and pride.
Meanwhile, LFA respects the decision of the appeal committee but express disappointment in lack of procedural clarity and communication.
“It is our hope that SIFF reflects on this outcome and makes necessary improvements in its engagement with Provincial Football Association (PFAs), especially in providing timely information regarding appeals and related governance process,”
While declaring the matter procedurally closed, LFA urged its players, supporters, and fans to remain calm, united, and proud of their journey, reaffirming its commitment to football and future competition.
The semi-final matches will be played on Tuesday at Lawson Tama.
By Gehazi Seko
Taro Stringer
