Kohima: The Nagaland Super League (NSL) technical committee has taken disciplinary action against a referee following a controversy in a match between Red Scars FC and Sechü Zubza FC, where a violation of substitution rules led to 12 players being on the field.
According to the committee’s report, Red Scars FC player Thanggousang Hangsing (Jersey No. 21) was substituted in the 89th minute during 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 report stated.
The Red Scars FC management was also found responsible for failing to follow proper substitution procedures and has been sanctioned with a monetary fine.
Main referee of the match, Vibek Chettri, has been relieved from officiating any further matches in the ongoing NSL 2025. Other match officials present during the game have been issued official caution and placed under observation.
Players and support staff who vocally protested on the sidelines and outside the field of play are under caution and observation.
The other match officials on duty during the match have been issued official caution and are under observation.
“Any further misconduct or repeated offenses will lead to strict disciplinary action,” the committee warned.
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