Tempers heat up in TSB title chase
A match official was seriously injured when he was assaulted by three spectators while performing his duties during a match between Langeloop City Movers and Bhunya Sundown’s.
On Monday April 14 the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the TSB Selati Cup condoned the violence witnessed last week Saturday at the Phiva Open Soccer Field.
This comes after a match official was seriously injured when he was assaulted by three spectators while performing his duties during a match between Langeloop City Movers and Bhunya Sundown’s.
Speaking at the last 64 draw LOC secretary, Mr Kenneth Phiri , outlined acts considered to be offences and appealed to all team owners to encourage restrain of their players and supporters at all times.
Phiri furthermore appealed to everyone to be tolerant with one another, and refrain from barbaric behaviour from the tournament.
He said, “Spitting at a referee is an offence, assaulting one is even much worse. We are asking of you to be civilised and compassionate. And let us be one, let us not disappoint the sponsors who have made this investment so that our brothers and children can go forward in this sport. There are committees who are watching this tournament and scouts who have promised to come during the last 16. What will await them if things continue in this way? We are therefore asking you to behave and control your supporters. In the rules there is an issue of marshals, which states each club should have three. They have to ensure that the assistant-referee is safe, that he has his one-metre space for running and perform his duties, and also call the team’s supporters to order.”
Phiri also warned against the illegal sale of alcohol at the stadium, saying those selling alcohol will face the full might of the law.
“The sponsor of this tournament has not stopped law-enforcement agencies from performing their tasks. So those who are selling alcohol illegally at the stadiums will be dealt with by the SAPS.” said Phiri.
In conclusion Phiri discouraged club owners from giving money to match officials, whether it is a bribe or just a thank-you gesture for a job well done.
He said, “The payment of match officials is not your responsibility. It is taken care of by us. So there is absolutely no need for club owners to give any match official money.”
Last 64 draw results and fixtures:
Date: Monday April 21
Venue: KaMaqhekeza Open Soccer Field
09:00 Hoyi Seven Stars vs Mdladla Peace Maker
11:00 Mbuzini Brave Lions vs Block C Hungry Lion
13:00 Mangweni Intermillan vs Tonga United
15:00 Mbuzini Hotspurs vs Buffelspruit Juveniles
Date: Monday April 21
Venue: Driekoppies Stadium
09:00 Kamhlushwa Ltd vs Langeloop City Movers /B Sundown’s
11:00 Shongwe Highlanders vs Langeloop Black Burn United
13:00 Mlambo Royal Cubs vs Driekoppies Eastern Stars
15:00 Mtata Peace Maker vs Jeppes Shongwe Chiefs.
