Phalaborwa Celtics match halted after pitch invasion
Tensions boiled over as officials and supporters entered the field during a heated tournament encounter in Phalaborwa.
PHALABORWA – A pitch invasion stole the spotlight during the Modupi Mining Tournament on Saturday, June 13, as Phalaborwa Celtics’ clash with Makhushane 11 Bullets ended in controversy.
With disciplinary action looming against Celtics, the dramatic incident overshadowed a weekend that also saw two matches end in draws on Sunday, June 14, forcing replays in the race for a place in the next round.
Match descends into chaos
The controversy unfolded during Saturday’s second fixture between Phalaborwa Celtics and Makhushane 11 Bullets. Bullets took an early lead in the 10th minute and continued to dominate proceedings. They doubled their advantage in the 65th minute through a successful counterattack.
However, tensions boiled over in the 70th minute when an offside decision against Celtics sparked protests from the team’s management and supporters. The situation escalated when supporters and officials entered the field of play, disrupting the match.
Following the incident, Celtics left the pitch while Makhushane 11 Bullets remained on the field. With play unable to continue, the referee called full-time.
Modupi Mining Tournament communications officer Kgaugelo Pilusa confirmed that disciplinary action will be taken against Phalaborwa Celtics following the incident.
Chiefs secure narrow victory earlier on Saturday
Earlier on Saturday, Selwana Junior Chiefs secured a 1-0 victory over Maseke Youngstars.
After a goalless first half, Junior Chiefs found the breakthrough in the 50th minute. Despite creating several scoring opportunities, Youngstars were unable to capitalise and finished the match goalless.
Sunday fixtures end in draws
Sunday’s fixtures produced two draws, setting up replay matches scheduled for the weekend of June 28.
In the opening match, Majeje All Nation and Lulekani Try Again played to a 1-1 draw. All Nation opened the scoring in the 23rd minute before Try Again equalised through a penalty in the 31st minute.
The second match of the day saw Mabele Academy and Lulekani TS Galaxy battle to a goalless draw. Although both teams created opportunities, disciplined defending and missed chances ensured the match ended 0-0.
