We feared for our lives in Chaman: Wapda

Lahore club returns home without playing any matches.

KARACHI: Muslim FC moved to second place in the Pakistan Premier Football League (PPFL) as their opponents Wapda left Chaman without playing any of their three matches after receiving death threats.

According to Wapda officials, during practice, their players had been receiving threats of physical assault by the locals.

The officials revealed that the team had been in Chaman since December 4 but decided against playing scheduled matches when the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) failed to provide adequate security.

“We were in constant fear for our lives and were receiving threats of physical assault.” Wapda coach Sharafat Ali told The Express Tribune. “It’s very difficult to play these teams at their home grounds in Chaman. Also, due to our current form, we won’t end up in the top three, so we decided not to play the matches.

“Army went to play in Chaman with a retinue of four vehicles, security personnel and a helicopter. We can’t afford that. Our players were kidnapped in Chaman back in 2004 so I can’t take risks. The PFF should take steps to provide security or else cease organising matches in Chaman.”

As a result of the walk over, Muslim FC held second position in the league with 47 points after 25 matches, while Wapda dropped to the eighth spot behind Afghan FC with 26.

Meanwhile, PMC Athletico strived to stay in the league as they defeated Wohaib FC 1-0 in their 20th match.

After a goalless first half, PMC Athletico sealed victory in the 72nd minute with Mohammad Yasir’s goal. The Faisalabad club stayed in 15th position with 17 points while Wohaib FC remained at the bottom with eight.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 10^th, 2012.