Africa-Press – Namibia. Gobabis-based outfit Young African FC allege in a statement issued on Tuesday that a lack of adequate security allowed an altercation on Sunday to escalate onto the playing field.
Young African FC visited Okahandja United FC on Sunday, at the Nau-Aib sport field. Though the host club was leading a goal to nil, the match was interrupted and escalated to an unbearable level.
A statement issued by Young African FC says the match, which began with a second half with Okahandja United leading 1-0, was marred by a commotion sparked by Young African FC technical’s concerns regarding the treatment of an injured player on the field.
“We noted the absence of a medical team or ambulance. Despite our technical staff raising these issues with the fourth official, tension escalated when members of the Okahandja United technical team intervened in the defence of the official as if he was their member,” the statement reads.
The release further says the situation intensified, as both teams became embroiled in a dispute. ”Unfortunately, the lack of adequate security allowed this altercation to extend onto the field.
“Involving supporters from both sides. We strongly believe in the spirit of fair play, and regret that the events overshadowed the match’s athletic integrity.”
Young African FC stresses that their head coach, Marley Ngarizemo, currently suspended after a prior match against Bucks Buccaneers, felt compelled to intervene in an attempt to restore order.
“While on the field, he faced verbal insults but chose to remain respectful, confronting coach Woody Jacobs regarding the tactics being employed during the game. This included the insufficient number of ball boys and security measures.”
Young African FC says the interaction further fuelled the altercation, leading to Ngarizemo being escorted from the field, only to return to ask the support to go off the field, and players to get back on the field of play.
“It is very important to also note that this match was abandoned by the referee because of their safety after realising the lack of security presence, as there were fewer than six security members, and also the lack of security fencing at the stadium,” the statement reads.
Young African FC says it is essential to highlight that the match was streamed live by Masty, providing an accurate record of the events for public viewing.
“We urge everyone to refrain from jumping to conclusions based on social media narratives. Such misrepresentation could adversely impact perceptions and decision-making among stakeholders,” the statement reads.
Young African say they accept that the team is still in the process of growth and acknowledge defeat as part of their journey. “ It’s incorrect to portray our club as unwilling to accept losses, we have always valued sportsmanship and fair competition.”
The team says their focus is now turned to the weekend’s matches against Julinho Athletics FC on Saturday, and Rundu Chiefs on Sunday.
Both matches will take place in Windhoek, and they remain hopeful of achieving a top-five finish in the current league campaign.
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