Herentals versus Chicken Inn behind closed doors

WHAT should have been a lively start to the new Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season turned into a quiet affair on Saturday after hosts Herentals FC were forced to play their opening match behind closed doors against Chicken Inn FC at Rufaro Stadium.

The fixture, which marked the beginning of the new campaign at Zimbabwe's ceremonial home of football, was played without spectators as the Students served part of a disciplinary sanction imposed last season.

Herentals, who registered their first-ever victory over the Gamecocks last year, were hoping to begin the new season on a positive note despite the absence of their supporters.

The development was confirmed by the Premier Soccer League (Zimbabwe) in a reminder issued on Saturday ahead of the match.

"We would like to remind fans that the match between Herentals and Chicken Inn scheduled for Saturday, March 7 will be played behind closed doors as Herentals will be serving an ongoing disciplinary judgement issued by the PSL Disciplinary Committee," the league said.

The sanction follows a ruling by the PSL Disciplinary Committee after the club was found guilty over incidents that occurred during a league match against CAPS United FC last season.

Under the judgement, Herentals were fined US$5 000 and ordered to play three matches without fans.

The disciplinary action stemmed from incidents of assault and disorderly conduct involving Herentals security officials Paradzai Afa and Tairos Ngoma during a league encounter played at Rufaro Stadium on September 13, 2025.

The closed-door ruling means Herentals will have to navigate the early stages of the new season without the backing of their supporters as they seek to build momentum in the league.