WRFA Disciplinary Committee Sanctions Tarkwa Barcelona FC for Fielding Unqualified Players

The Western Regional Football Association (WRFA) Disciplinary Committee has ruled against Tarkwa Barcelona FC for fielding unqualified players in their match against Tarkwa United FC on November 30, 2024, at Akoon Park. The ruling, delivered on February 25, 2025, at the WRFA office in Sekondi, found Tarkwa Barcelona FC guilty of violating player registration regulations.

Background of the Case

On December 3, 2024, Tarkwa United FC lodged a formal protest, alleging that Tarkwa Barcelona FC fielded six unqualified players. The protest was supported by extracts from the FIFA Connect System, team sheet evidence, and group photographs.

The players in question were Solomon Oppong (No.11), Rockson Quaicoe (No.9), Lord Quansah (No.15), Nathaniel Nartey (No.6), Ralph Tsifokokor (No.2), and Robin Aidoo (No.17).

Tarkwa Barcelona FC filed a defense, denying the claims and countering that Tarkwa United FC had also fielded ineligible players.

Findings and Evidence

Following an independent investigation, which included examining the referee’s report and verifying player registrations on the FIFA Connect System, the Disciplinary Committee found that:

1. Rockson Quaicoe (No.9) and Lord Quansah (No.15) were not registered with Tarkwa Barcelona FC at the time of the match.

2. Solomon Oppong, Nathaniel Nartey, Ralph Tsifokokor, and Robin Aidoo were only registered after the match, making them ineligible to play.

The evidence confirmed that all six players were unqualified to participate in the match, violating Article 28(1)(a) and 2(a) of the WRFA League Regulations.

Sanctions Imposed

Based on Article 33(1)(e), Tarkwa Barcelona FC was found guilty and sanctioned as follows:

1. Forfeiture of the match, per Article 33(1)(e).

2. Tarkwa United FC awarded three (3) points and three (3) goals, in line with Article 33(2).

3. Tarkwa Barcelona FC loses three (3) accumulated points, as stipulated in Article 33(5)(a).

4. A GH₵3,000 fine imposed on Tarkwa Barcelona FC, with 50% payable to Tarkwa United FC. The fine must be paid within 14 days as per Article 19(5)(b) of the 2024/2025 Administrative Instructions.

The WRFA Disciplinary Committee emphasized the importance of proper player registration and adherence to league regulations, warning clubs to ensure compliance to maintain the integrity of the competition.