Shortly before this weekend’s matches in the Papua New Guinea National Soccer League, we reported that Raymond Gunemba was handed a five-match suspension for his behaviour at the end of Lae City’s 2-1 defeat against Vitiaz United earlier in the season.
The suspensions meant that he, alongside teammate Obert Bika, who was also involved in the incident, were unavailable to play against FC Kutubu last weekend, a match which ended 8-1 in favour of the five-time reigning champions.
However, Gunemba and Bika were both cleared to play in this weekend’s crunch match against Hekari United, which suggested that the club’s appeal against the lengthy suspension has been successful.
Further research has revealed that the club had to pay a fine of K1000, but that the suspension was lifted following the payment of the fine and the serving of a one-match ban for both players.
It is expected that Gunemba will be available for the remainder of the domestic season.
There has been no official announcement from the National Soccer League nor the Papua New Guinea Football Association regarding this incident, bringing into question the transparency of the process. Rest assured, we will always try to bring you all the relevant news as soon as we have the information, including further updates on Gunemba’s suspension and appeal.
Oceania Football Center 