On Tuesday, the directors of Cement Xuan Thanh Saigon (CXTS) Football Club officially announced their departure from the current V-League.  Their action is in protest at a decision by the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) to deduct 4 points from them for their lack of sporting spirit in a recent match.  The directors maintain that the VFF have no acceptable evidence.

The VFF had accused CXTS of producing a low-spirited performance during its 1-3 loss to Kien Giang in the 19^th round of this year’s V-League on 10 August. 

SHB DN and DTLA players

Under Clause 3, Article 138, of the VFF’s Disciplinary Code about arbitrarily leaving the football tournament, the team will have a fine of at least 100 million VND imposed, and all the results from their matches with other clubs this season will be declared null and void.  In addition, they will be forced to participate in the Third Division Championships, starting from next season. 

As a result of the points cancellations, SHB Da Nang now stand in 2^nd place in the league as they were only deducted 2 points, as compared with Ha Noi T&T who were deducted 4 points, and Song Lam Nghe An who have lost the 6 points from their 2 wins against CXTS. 

HN T&T remain top of the league with 34 points, followed by SHB DN on 32, HAGL on 31 and SLNA on 30.  Three of these 4 teams have just 2 matches left to play – HAGL only one because they were due to play CXTS next Sunday.  SHB DN’s next game is a crucial away match at 3^rd-placed SLNA, also on Sunday.