Following a controversial NSL match between Red Scars FC and Sechü Zubza FC at Chumoukedima Football Ground on February 26, where 12 players of Red Scars FC were on the playing field during added time, the Nagaland Super League (NSL) Technical Committee has relieved the main referee of the match, Vibek Chettri, from officiating any further matches in the ongoing Nagaland Super League 2025.
According to the NSL Technical Committee, Red Scars FC player Thanggousang Hangsing (Jersey No. 21) was substituted by Pulovi (Jersey No. 17) in the 89th minute of the 24th match of the ongoing NSL.
“However, he re-entered the field of play without the referee’s permission and deliberately left the field, violating match regulations. He has been penalised with a Yellow Card for unsporting behavior,” the NSL Technical Committee stated.
The committee also ruled that the Red Scars FC team management failed to uphold their responsibilities by ignoring proper substitution procedures. As a result, the club has been sanctioned with a monetary fine for unsporting behavior.
Apart from axing the main referee, the other match officials on duty during the match have been issued official cautions and are under observation.
“The players and support staff who made vocal complaints on the sidelines and outside the field of play (FOP) are under caution and observation. Any further misconduct or repeated offenses will lead to strict disciplinary action,” the NSL Technical Committee noted.
The match ended 2-1 in favour of Red Scars FC.
Red Scars FC is currently ranked 4th in the league with 9 points from 8 matches, while Sechu Zubza is ranked fifth with 7 points from 8 matches.
