Vipers hold Samartex to draw

Cape Coast, Oct. 24 GNA - Cape Coast Venomous Vipers held Samartex to a 1-1 drawn game in their zone 2B National Division One league match at the Cape Coast sports stadium on Saturday.

After a goalless first half, Samartex went ahead to score the opener through their midfielder, Haruna Gariba in the 50th minute. Gariba after collecting a pass from the midfield raced with the ball to score the opener.

Vipers returned the attack and after dictating the pace for some time they managed to fetch the equaliser through outside right, Hamidu Bukari in the 75th minute.

Immediately Accra based referee Jourbua Akrofi Amenya whistled for the end of proceedings irate supporters of Vipers went on a rampage. They broke the inner perimeter fence and invaded the football field before subjecting the referee and his assistants to severe beatings. During the stampede, assistant referee, Ibrahim Ashong, who collapsed was rushed to the Central Regional Hospital while the referee and the other assistant, Sylvester Bonuedi, also from Accra were given first aid by the Red Cross.

The few policemen detailed to maintain peace and order were assisted by the executive members of Vipers and officials of the Sports Council to rescue the referee and the other linesmen after they had been beaten mercilessly.

According to some of the supporters, the referee robbed the club during the match.