Soccer match outisde Siloam ends in chaos as fans storm pitch
Rabali Pull Together and Matanda Rockers are contesting for the title of champion in their stream in the Safa Vhembe Hollywood league, but the match had to be abandoned.
LIMPOPO – The match between Rabali Pull Together and Matanda Rockers, which had to be replayed at a filled-to-capacity Rabali grounds on Saturday ended in chaos with just 15 minutes left in the match and the score at 1-0, when Rockers’ supporters stormed onto the pitch to stop play.
The two teams are contesting for the title of champion in their stream in the Safa Vhembe Hollywood league, but the match had to be abandoned.
On Saturday, the game was closely contested, and signs of rivalry were evident from the start.
Pull Together missed several chances in the opening minutes, while Rockers dominated the midfield. When the incident happened Rockers were still leading 1-0.
Stars approached the second half with more confidence, and their fortunes changed in the 55th minute when they were awarded a penalty.
Halfway through the second half, fans of Rockers stormed onto the pitch when the referee awarded Pull Together a penalty, and accused him of favouritism.
Players and officials of both teams tried their best to persuade their supporters to leave the pitch.
Rockers’ captain Vhutshilo confirmed that during the chaos, the officials and players of both teams tried to calm the situation by requesting their supporters to leave the field, but they refused.
Safa Vhembe secretary Sam Matodzi said they were concerned about the incident.
“We want players to use soccer as a form of entertainment and create friendships. The two teams will be called to appear before a disciplinary committee after they receive the report from both teams and the referee,” he said.
