Trouble at the den: AFC Leopards down tools over in monetary dispute

© AFC Leopards

FOOTBALL Trouble at the den: AFC Leopards down tools over in monetary dispute

Festus Chuma 14:54 - 21.02.2024

AFC Leopards players strike over unpaid winning allowances despite an unbeaten run, refusing to train until payments are made.

Despite a commendable unbeaten streak extending to eight games, including a recent goalless draw with Kakamega Homeboyz, the harmony within AFC Leopards SC has been disrupted. 

Players have ceased training, striking over unpaid winning allowances, casting a shadow over their recent on-field successes.

Sources within the den reveal that the bone of contention lies in a Ksh 20,000 winning allowance backlog, unpaid across their last four victories. 

The standard arrangement entitles each match day squad member to a Ksh 5,000 allowance per win, an agreement the club has seemingly faltered on.

Efforts by club chairman Dan Shikanda to mediate and encourage players to resume training on Wednesday were futile, with players opting to return home instead. 

Tomas Trucha, the Leopards' coach, hinted at underlying tensions even before the standoff came to light, following the Homeboyz match. 

"I can't quite put it into words, but we faced some internal challenges within our camp that hindered our preparation. However, I'm content with the draw we secured from such a demanding derby," Trucha disclosed, shedding light on the less visible struggles the team faces off the pitch.

The situation has escalated to the point where players have threatened to boycott their upcoming FKF Cup match against PAC University.

Such a move would not only impact the team's performance in the short term but could also have lasting effects on its reputation and player morale.

Currently sitting eighth in the FKF Premier League with 31 points after 22 matches, AFC Leopards' impressive record belies the turmoil within.

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