Bosso, Dembare facing severe consequences
Highlanders and Dynamos are facing severe consequences from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) due to the recent fan violence that led to the abandonment of their league match at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.
During the game, Highlanders fans engaged in disruptive behavior by throwing objects, invading the pitch, and clashing with the police. Simultaneously, Dynamos supporters breached PSL rules and regulations by invading the pitch at the Mpilo End.
Both clubs, known for their large fan bases and passionate followings, are expected to be summoned for a disciplinary hearing. This incident follows past precedents, as both teams were summoned for a disciplinary hearing last year due to crowd trouble at Barbourfields Stadium. They were found guilty of violating Order 31 of the league's rules, which prohibits unruly fan behavior, including pitch invasion (except for crowd safety reasons), causing match abandonment, and throwing objects onto the pitch. As a result, Highlanders and Dynamos were fined $5,000 and $7,500, respectively.
In response to the recent incidents, PSL Chairman Farai Jere issued a statement condemning the hooliganism and reaffirming the league's commitment to a disciplinary process. He emphasized that violence and hooliganism have no place in football and that rule violators will face consequences. Jere also urged clubs to educate their fans about PSL regulations and apologized to the Sports and Recreation Commission for the incidents.
Highlanders Football Club expressed deep regret for the crowd trouble and the match's abandonment. They condemned the unsportsmanlike behavior, apologized to stakeholders, and wished a speedy recovery to those injured during the disturbances. The club called for collaboration among stakeholders to address this issue and improve the image of Zimbabwean football.
The match between Highlanders and Dynamos was abandoned in the 37th minute, with Dynamos leading 2-0. Dynamos is likely to be awarded all three points, potentially resulting in Highlanders' third consecutive defeat and a loss of their top spot in the league standings to Ngezi Platinum Stars, who won their match against Manica Diamonds on Saturday.
