SAFA react to the ugly scenes at ABC Motsepe playoffs

Ugly scenes erupted at the end of the SAFA ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs match between Umsinga United and Orbit College at Harry Gwala Stadium on Friday.

The hosts came into the match as favourites for promotion but unfortunately lost 1-0 to the North West side in the semifinals.

But the home fans couldn’t stomach the outcome of the match causing chaos immediately after the final whistle

UGLY SCENES AT ABC MOTSEPE LEAGUE NATIONAL PLAYOFFS

The uncontrollable Umsinga fans flocked onto the pitch posing security concerns for players. An incident that has caused embarrassment to the league and the association.

The goalkeeper coach of Umsinga Gezani Zondi had to be attended to by medical personnel after he was hit by objects in the head. SAFA KZN Chairperson Kwenzakwakhe Ngwenya has promised to take action against the culprits.

“We’re going to make an example with this team, we’re going to charge them,” said Ngwenya.

“They’ll appear before the disciplinary committee. I won’t be specific about how we’re also going to charge them. But DC is going to take the decision, ours is to take them to DC.”

GUNS AT HARRY GWALA STADIUM

There were also gunshots heard inside the stadium which allegedly came from the angry Umsinga supporters. They were reportedly retaliating against the police who used rubber bullets to dispatch the crowd.

Responding to how the fans were allowed into the stadium with guns, Ngwenya said, “I cannot be able to answer that easily.”

“Except for the fact that it is understood that the security wasn’t right at the gate. The truth is, those people used the gates to enter which is not allowed.

“Guns are not allowed except the ones who are the bodyguards of the mayors, etc. We made sure that those kinds of people were at the VIP, protected and working under orders.”

ORBIT PLAYER TO RECEIVE THERAPY

“We’ll also try to give the players who were on the field mental therapy,” he continued. Luckily, tomorrow is the rest day, we’ll organise therapy so that they will come back on Sunday sober-minded.”

RELATED STORY: Two new Motsepe Foundation Championship clubs confirmed