Romanian League probe alleged cash offer to fix game

BUCHAREST, May 4 (Reuters) The Romanian Professional League (LPF) has launched an investigation after money was allegedly offered to three players to let an opposing team win a match last Sunday.

''The LPF has started an investigation after Steaua Bucharest owner Gigi Becali said he has evidence that an intermediary offered money to three Arges Pitesti players to let visiting CFR Cluj win,'' LPF president Dumitru Dragomir told reporters today.

Second placed CFR Cluj and Steaua, who are third, are separated by a point in the table with five games remaining.

Sunday's game at Arges Pitesti ended 0-0 but Dragomir said the LPF would still ask Becali to produce his evidence.

''If Becali shows the proof he says he has, the LPF will immediately ask prosecutors to take up the case,'' Dragomir said.

''If not, Becali will be banned from...official activity according the LPF's current rules.'' REUTERS TB HS1810