The Appeals Committee of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) has reduced the sanction imposed on Shaita Angels FC President Benita W. Urey, cutting her ban from five years to a three-year period following a formal review of the case.
In its ruling, the Committee upheld the earlier findings of the LFA Grievance and Disciplinary Committee, which found Urey culpable of involvement in match manipulation during the 2024/2025 First Division League season. However, it concluded that the initial five-year punishment was “manifestly disproportionate” for a first-time offense, prompting a downward revision of the penalty.
The case centered on allegations that Urey distributed money to players in an attempt to influence matches involving Paynesville FC. The Appeals Committee said its decision was based on a thorough review of evidence and testimonies presented by players connected to the investigation.
Despite Urey’s defense that the payments were benevolent in nature and that the evidence against her was circumstantial, the Committee ruled that her actions compromised the integrity of the competition and violated established football regulations.
Under the revised sanction, Urey remains barred from all football-related activities, including administrative and sporting roles, and is prohibited from entering any football stadium for the duration of the three-year ban.
The LFA noted that the decision is binding on all parties, unless successfully challenged before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The ruling marks a significant development in one of the most high-profile disciplinary cases in Liberian football, reinforcing the Association’s stance on protecting the credibility of the game while also ensuring proportionality in its sanctions.
