Hearts of Lions' head coach Bashir Hayford has been handed a five-game suspension by the Ghana Football Association's (GFA) Disciplinary Committee following an incident of unsporting behaviour in a match against Karela United on matchday seven.The altercation occurred after Lions suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat, with Hayford reportedly venting his frustrations at match officials as they made their way off the pitch.
The GFA labelled his actions "unacceptable," issuing a strong warning that any repeat of such conduct will result in even harsher penalties.Alongside the ban, Hayford has been fined GH¢5,000 for his verbal abuse of the officials.This suspension leaves Lions, who recently defeated Kotoko 1-0 in the Ghana Premier League, without their head coach for upcoming matches against Berekum Chelsea, Accra Lions, Legon Cities, Samartex, and Basake Holy Stars.In a separate ruling, Berekum Chelsea's Chief Executive, Obed Nana Nketia, has been fined GH¢20,000 for attempting to force his way into the referees' dressing room, accompanied by supporters, and for assaulting a police officer while inciting fans against security personnel.
He is required to pay the fine within 10 days.Meanwhile, Nations FC has received a one-match home ban after fans engaged in misconduct during their matchday six clash against Bibiani GoldStars at the Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.