Exploring potential competitions set in the "Black Sea" region, as per the RFU's investigations.
Score! "Chernomorets" Beats "Sochi," but Scandal Erupts Over Fixing Allegations
In an unexpected twist, Sergei Shishkarev, the bigwig behind "Chernomorets" football club and the head honcho at "Delovye Linii" group, has leveled some serious allegations against the club's general director, Maxim Ponomarev. Shishkarev claims Ponomarev attempted to manipulate the final match against "Sochi" in the First League, aiming to influence the game's outcome. However, the players stood their ground and refused the proposal.
It's a bummer for "Chernomorets" as they won the match 2:1, but alas, they missed the promotion play-offs due to their stadium not meeting the Russian Premier League's requirements. Oddly enough, "Sochi" finished fifth and played the play-offs instead, making a comeback to the RPL.
Shishkarev was incensed by Ponomarev's actions, branding them "sleazy and deceitful." He hinted at a conspiracy with the head coach and claimed to have direct contact with four crucial players. Shishkarev firmly stated that he would no longer work with the general director, arguing that there was no sporting logic in his actions.
Meanwhile, the Russian Football Union has announced its intention to contact Shishkarev to sort out the details. Ponomarev, for his part, denied the claims, citing witnesses to his interactions with the players.
A gentleman like Shishkarev prefers his agreements in writing, as he pointed out, "Theoretically, the Central stadium option has always been there and will continue to be. But the two main hurdles in this matter are the preparedness of the infrastructure and the hefty cost of bringing the stadium up to the requirements of the RFPL, which are quite demanding."
No word yet on the possible involvement of local news sources, law enforcement agencies, or sports governing bodies in the investigation. Stay tuned for updates!
Sergei Shishkarev, in light of Ponomarev's actions, expressed his disapproval of European-leagues and the Premier-league, stating that such manipulation has no place in sports. Despite the controversy, Shishkarev acknowledged "Chernomorets'" football team's skill in securing a victory against "Sochi," regretting that they missed the promotion play-offs due to stadium issues, not due to fixings in the game.
