SPONSOR of the Dolphin, FC, has the Rivers State Government has thrown its weight behind embattled manager of the club, Stanley Eguma following his ban from all football related activities for the next five years.

Eguma was banned for his alleged involvement in the match-fixing scandal between Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars in an NPL game played during the 2010/2011 season.

But the sponsor of the NPL champions has now moved to back the trainer following the decision of the NFF disciplinary committee to ostracize the former Gabros coach.

“We will appeal against the ruling (to ban Eguma). I had a meeting with the technical and management team of Dolphins (on Thursday) and the judgment against Dolphins holds no ground,” Rivers State sports commissioner, Fred Igwe told SuperSport.com.

The commissioner stressed the need for the club to appeal against the decision ‘to ensure that the integrity of Dolphins is protected.’

“We need to ensure that the integrity of Dolphins FC is protected and the only way to achieve this is to ensure that we launch a vigorous appeal,” Igwe said.

Dolphins will face Akwa United on Sunday at the Port Harcourt Liberation Stadium on Matchday 8.