DODOMA: Mali national team and Tanzania Premier League champions Young Africans goalkeeper Djigui Diarra has been handed a series of disciplinary sanctions following his misconduct during the Mainland Premier League match between Mtibwa Sugar FC and Young Africans, which ended 1-1.
The Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) suspended Diarra for three matches and fined him Tanzania Shillings 2m/- for physically assaulting the centre referee after the match at Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma, in accordance with Article 41:5(5.3) of the Premier League regulations.
In a separate incident following the same match, Diarra was witnessed showing an obscene gesture towards officials, which has resulted in an additional fine of 2m/- under Article 41:5(5.4) of the regulations for insulting and showing contempt.
In addition to the disciplinary action against Diarra, the league has demoted referee Gilbert Mrina from Kilimanjaro for failing to take appropriate action during the incidents, as outlined in Article 42:1(1.6) regarding referee conduct.
This follows a similar offence between Mbeya City and Namungo, where Mrina was previously suspended for three rounds.
Meanwhile, assistant referee Abdulaziz Ally from Arusha has been suspended for five matches for incorrectly interpreting the rules in the 36th minute, signalling a foul that did not occur, under Article 42:1(1.8) of the Premier League regulations.
In other disciplinary matters, Simba SC has been fined Tanzania Shillings 10m/- for fans throwing water bottles at match officials following their 1-1 draw against Pamba Jiji FC, marking a repeat offence after a similar incident in February.
TRA United FC has been fined Tanzania Shillings 500,000/- for their players receiving more than five yellow cards in their 0-0 draw with Young Africans SC. The TPLB emphasised that these actions are part of its ongoing commitment to uphold discipline and ensure respect for officials, players and the integrity of Tanzanian football.