Police coach Ssimbwa handed one-match ban, fined

RWANDA Football Federation’s disciplinary committee has handed Police head coach Sam Ssimbwa a one-match ban and a fine of Rwf100, 000 for confronting a match referee. According to the Ferwafa vice president Vedaste Kayiranga, the Ugandan tactician used unacceptable language towards a match referee following Police’s 2-1 defeat to Rayon Sports in the league two weeks ago. “He has been banned for one game. He has apologised for what happened but he will also be fined Rwf100, 000,” Kayiranga told Times Sport yesterday. Kayiranga warned that the federation is not going to entertain cases of unbecoming behavior by any one during or after matches. “This is a serious issue and we are going to start handing out more punishments for bad behavior just like it is done elsewhere in the world. We need discipline in our game. Coaches need to lead by example,” he warned. Ssimbwa, known for his outspoken nature, will watch the next game from the stands when his team plays against AS Kigali on Sunday. When contacted, the former Ugandan international refused to comment on the matter. Ssimbwa’s ban follows a similar punishment handed to Esperance FC head coach Camalade Banamwana. Banamwana was banned for 8 matches and fined Rwf100, 000 for a similar offence two weeks ago. Also two weeks ago, Etincelles were forced to play their home league match against Police FC behind closed doors as a result of their fans’ unruly behavior when the team lost to Esperance 3-1. Etincelles goalkeeper Freddy Mukadi Ilunga and their lead fan Claver Rudodo were each slapped with a six-match ban and a fine of Rwf100, 000 respectively.