Harare (New Ziana) -The Premiers Soccer League on Tuesday condemned the attack of a referee by CAPS United supporters after a league match at the National Sports Stadium on Sunday.

Referee Jimmy Makwanda had to leave the stadium bandaged after being hit by a missile from the terraces of CAPS United supporters after a 1-1 draw with visiting Shamva side, Simba Bhora.

In a statement, the PSL said it condemns any form of abuse, harassment or assault on match officials.

“The referees are there to apply the laws of the game and their decisions must be respected by the clubs and all stake holders. We advise clubs to lodge complaints if they are not happy with match officials’ decisions.

“The Premier soccer league is determined to ensure that such behaviour is stamped out of the game and will be taking necessary disciplinary actions as provided in the PSL rules and regulations,” read part of the statement.

Meanwhile CAPS United also released a statement where they vowed to deal with unruly elements that saw frenzied scenes occur at the giant National Sports Stadium at the weekend where those found on the wrong side could be banned from attending football matches.

“As CAPS United Football Club, we strongly condemn the acts of violence and hooliganism that took place during our home game against Simba Bhora on Sunday 28 May 2023,” it said.

“Regardless of the frustrations that our supporters might have had during the match, such unruly behaviour of attacking the match officials and invading the pitch cannot be tolerated as it reflects badly on the game of football and the club’s image.”

The club said it was going to carry out internal investigations using the security department and media footage to identify culprits.

“One of the punitive measures the club is going to implement include the suspension of the persons from attending our games.

“We would like to urge all football loving supporters to refrain from such acts of hooliganism that stunt the growth of the sport as they scare away potential sponsors, partners and stakeholders,” the club said.

New Ziana