KINGSTON, Jamaica — Strike action by members of the Jamaica Football Referees Association (JFRA) has led to the cancellation of all 30 games scheduled for Saturday in the ISSA Schoolboys Football competitions, including the daCosta Cup and Manning Cup.

Observer Online has been reliably informed that referees “will not make themselves available,” as officials are reportedly striking following two incidents where their members were allegedly assaulted by players and spectators.

It is alleged that on September 14, assistant referee Richard Ball was struck in the chest by a missile thrown from a group of spectators during a Zone A daCosta Cup game between Maldon High and Cornwall College. Additionally, last week, another referee was allegedly assaulted by players from Dinthill Technical after their 1-1 draw at McGrath High.

At this time, the strike is not expected to affect the Jamaica Premier League games scheduled for Sunday and Monday.

It is understood that match officials are demanding that the Dinthill Technical and Maldon grounds no longer be used for games this season unless “proper security measures” are introduced. Observer Online also learned that ISSA has been asked to cover Ball’s medical expenses.

-Paul A Reid