Despite concerns about the violence witnessed at a previous match at Barbourfields Stadium (BF), the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) game featuring Highlanders and Yadah will proceed as planned.
The decision comes after local police assured heightened security for league games across the nation.
NewsDay reported that the request to move the match to a neutral venue originated from Yadah’s legal representatives following unsettling episodes at BF where police officers and civilians suffered injuries.
The unfortunate incidents transpired during a match between Dynamos and Highlanders, which officials had to abandon 37 minutes in due to disruptive crowd behaviour.
Dynamos held a 2-0 lead at that point, raising concerns for Yadah about the safety of their fans and stakeholders.
Speaking to the press, Kennedy Ndebele, the PSL Chief Executive Officer, reinforced that the upcoming match would occur at Barbourfields Stadium as earlier announced.
Ndebele remarked, “In response to Yadah’s concerns, we affirm the game will go as scheduled. However, we urge fans and stakeholders to embrace the spirit of football, a sport that symbolizes unity and family values.
We wholeheartedly denounce any form of violence. Spectators should come to enjoy the game, not disrupt it by entering the field or resorting to unruly behaviour. Following our meeting with top police officials this week, they’ve guaranteed comprehensive security for PSL games.
We’ve also instructed the police to rigorously check for potentially harmful objects. Furthermore, only licensed vendors will be permitted to operate within the stadiums. Those with intentions of causing disturbances should steer clear of our venues.”
Authorities have detained nearly 20 individuals connected to the BF disturbances. The local magistrate’s court has withheld their bail as investigations proceed.
In the context of the league standings, the stakes are high for Highlanders. Following two consecutive defeats against FC Platinum and Chicken Inn and the prematurely halted game against Dynamos, they’re eyeing a triumphant outcome against Yadah. The goal? Regaining their top position in the PSL rankings.
