The Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Hardrock and Dynamos at Chahwanda Stadium on Sunday was abandoned following crowd trouble.
Dynamos took the lead when Leeroy Mavunga broke down the left and delivered a dangerous cross. Hardrock failed to clear, and Misheck Ngwenya turned the ball into his own net under pressure.
Hardrock equalised from the penalty spot. Referee Magare Mhaka ruled that Shadreck Nyahwa had blocked a goal-bound shot with an outstretched arm, and Wilfred Madzungu converted the penalty.
Trouble began soon after the equaliser. Supporters from both sides threw bottles and other objects at each other from the terraces behind the Dynamos goal.
As tensions rose, Dynamos supporters breached security and spilt onto the pitch, damaging banners and leaving players and officials confused. Within moments, violence spread onto the field itself as supporters exchanged punches and the game descended into chaos.
Riot police intervened and eventually restored order, but not before damage had been done. Three supporters sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment.
After a lengthy stoppage, the match was officially abandoned in the 78th minute with the score at 1-1. Match commissioner Ruzive Ruzive later confirmed the decision.
It is the first league match to be abandoned because of crowd trouble this season.
More: Chronicle, Soccer24
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