Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie has released an official statement on the pitch invasions and “unruly behaviour by the over-excited supporters” during and around the MTN8 quarter-final with Kaizer Chiefs.
The game had to kick off 30 minutes delayed after thousands of spectators were still trying to enter Danie Craven Stadium at the scheduled kick-off at 15:00.
The match again had a small delay in the second half following a pitch invasion by Kaizer Chiefs after their side had scored the equaliser via Stellies youth product Ashley Du Preez.
Eventually the match went into penalties, where the Amakhosi kept their nerves and Itumeleng saved two spot kicks to send his side into MTN8 semi-finals.
However, instead of celebrating with their fans, both sets of players had to rush into the tunnel, as hundreds of fans were storming the pitch once more.
Benadie later explained that the Premier Soccer League (PSL) were in charge of the security measures at Danie Craven Stadium on the day and also apologised for the events that occurred.
“Sunday 28th August 2022 marked a historic day for Stellenbosch. Not only was it the highest profile football match ever hosted by the Town, but also the first-ever MTN Top 8 match played by Stellenbosch FC. SFC qualified for a home quarter final match against Kaizer Chiefs after ending the DStv Premiership in fourth position last season, ahead of their Soweto rivals in fifth.
The match itself was a spectacle with excellent football, high drama, goals and controversy, Kaizer Chiefs eventually won on penalties after the teams were deadlocked 1-1 after extra-time,” he said via a statement to News24.
“The Premier Soccer League, as event organiser of this knockout match, advertised the match as sold out two hours prior and implemented all the necessary security measures for the 15,000 spectators. The match was however unfortunately marred by unruly behaviour by the over-excited supporters, causing damage to perimeter fencing, pitch invasions and delays to the match. Challenges also arose with traffic congestion which resulted in vehicles parked illegally on private property around the stadium. Thankfully there has not been any reports of serious harm or injury as of yet.
“The Stellenbosch FC would like to sincerely apologise to the law-abiding supporters as well residents in the surrounding areas that were inconvenienced.”
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Benadie also confirmed that a debrief of the events is scheduled for 1 September, later this week.
“A debrief attended by all parties including the PSL, both clubs, SAPS, municipality and service providers is scheduled for Thursday 1 September to discuss the incidents that occurred inside and outside the stadium before finalising remedial measures to be taken,” he added.
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