By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kaizer Chiefs have apologised for the latest incident involving the behaviour of their fans following an embarrassing 4-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB stadium on Saturday.
The match was marred by fights in the stands, as well as supporters pelting bottles onto the field.
“Kaizer Chiefs would like to sincerely apologise to all our stakeholders, sponsors, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), South African Football Association (SAFA), and our loyal supporters for the disappointing incidents witnessed on Saturday during the Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinal match against Mamelodi Sundowns,” read a statement on the Chiefs website.
“While it was a beautiful day for football, it was unfortunately marred by behaviour that has no place in our beloved game.
“The invasion of the pitch and the throwing of missiles onto the field are completely unacceptable.
“Despite thorough preparations for the sold-out match, we observed issues arising early on, with some supporters already under the influence of alcohol before the game, leading to unwanted incidents. This highlights a pressing societal issue that the football industry and our communities must address collectively.”
Saturday’s incident is the latest in a series of problems that Chiefs have had with their fans at matches.
They were already fined this season by a Premier Soccer League Disciplinary Committee (PSL DC), after their fans threw missiles at the end of the Betway Premiership encounter with Sundowns on September 28.