Referee Chased And Assaulted After Controversial Penalty Decision

A football referee was reportedly assaulted after a controversial penalty decision sparked chaos during the second leg of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League promotion/relegation play-off between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United on Tuesday, October 6.

The match, played at the Ulinzi Complex Stadium, was abandoned in the 66th minute after referee John Sulwe awarded Mombasa United a penalty following a challenge inside the Kariobangi Sharks box.

The decision immediately drew strong protests from Sharks players, who confronted the referee over the call.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the situation quickly escalated when some home supporters invaded the pitch and chased Sulwe around the playing area.

The referee was reportedly assaulted during the ensuing chaos before security personnel intervened and escorted him away from the scene for his safety.

The match was subsequently called off, with Kariobangi Sharks leading 2-1 at the time of the abandonment.

The result had significant implications for the promotion/relegation battle, as the winner of the two-legged tie was expected to secure a place in the FKF Premier League for the season.

Mombasa United had entered the second leg with an advantage after securing a 2-1 victory over Sharks in the first leg at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa.

The circumstances surrounding the abandoned fixture are expected to attract further attention as football authorities consider the events that led to the referee being attacked and the match being halted.