THE Premier Soccer League has condemned the violence that erupted at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo during the Castle Challenge Cup match between Highlanders and FC Platinum on Saturday.
In a strongly worded statement Monday, the PSL also announced was launching an investigation into the frequent incidences of violence at the venue.
There were chaotic scenes in Bulawayo on Saturday as an irate section of Highlanders fans ran amok, attacking rival fans and clashing with the police on the pitch.
The violent scenes almost led to the abandonment of the season opener which Bosso lost 0-2 to the Zimbabwe champions.
PSL said it had launched an investigation into the mayhem at Barbourfields and confirmed that Highlanders will be charged for the violence that marred the clash.
PSL added that it would also seek “recommendations on stemming out violence at football matches played at Barbourfields Stadium in particular”.
“The Premier Soccer League strongly condemns acts of violence and hooliganism that took place at Barbourfields Stadium on Saturday 14 March 2020 during a Castle Challenge Cup fixture between FC Platinum and Highlanders FC,” PSL said.
“Such unruly behaviour cannot be tolerated as it reflects badly on the game of football and the country as a whole.
“We are carrying out investigations on the matter and have requested reports from the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the two participating clubs, the Bulawayo City Council security department and security officials on what transpired and their recommendations on stemming out violence at football matches played at Barbourfields Stadium in particular,” the topflight body said.
Some Highlanders fans invaded the pitch attacking FC Platinum and members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police leading to a 30 minute stoppage towards the end of the match.
Police had a torrid time trying to restore order as the hooligans tried to go after the visitors’ fans on the pitch.
The league said it would charge Highlanders for contravening PSL and tournament regulations due to the behaviour of their fans and this usually leads to a punitive fines.
“Meanwhile, we will proceed to charge Highlanders FC in terms of the Premier Soccer League rules and regulations as well as the rules of the tournament.”
