Barry Daka On New Job

Former Notwane, ECCO City Greens and Police XI coach Barry Daka, will coach newly promoted Happy Hearts of Botswana. Barry coached Highlanders FC, Railstars FC, Zimbabwe national senior and junior teams even won the league with ECCO a few seasons back.

BBza was given a mandate to take the ambitious team to greatness. They want his experience in dealing with their youthful team. While professionalism is a big issue in Botswana, coaches often put up with a lot of both headaches and heartaches to implement their philosophies and tactics.

Happy Hearts have already lost a charity Challenge Cup to Gaborone United but the club conceded all their preparations are barely 40% before the start of the league. They signed 2 veterans and young players from Rahman Gumbo's Township Rollers reserves.

A professional of his calibre, Daka will have to compromise his stance and the local culture of doing football as a favour for the coach. Having been in those situations for years now, he must be aware of the situation but will be hoping to give Rahman Gumbo a run for his Pulas.

Rahman Gumbo made a fantastic start for Mochudi Chiefs registering a 4-0 win over Uniao Flamengo Santos and giving a bapstism of fire to new boys Black Peril, 8-1 but lost to Gunners 0-2. Willard Mshinkila Khumalo's Nico were crushed 6-1 by Township Rollers who climbed to the summit of the Botswana MOBILE Premier League over the weekend.

Botswana football in general is on the rise parlty because of the contribution of the Zimbabwean mentors but largely because the Botswana coach is nimplementing the Brazilian mentality of the game. Stanley Tshosane was in a class in which I was top coach in Brazil in 1999 as a fellow student.

Do you think Botswana football is relevant enough for your consumption on this blog?

Barry Daka On New Job

Former Notwane, ECCO City Greens and Police XI coach Barry Daka, will coach newly promoted Happy Hearts of Botswana. Barry coached Highlanders FC, Railstars FC, Zimbabwe national senior and junior teams even won the league with ECCO a few seasons back.

BBza was given a mandate to take the ambitious team to greatness. They want his experience in dealing with their youthful team. While professionalism is a big issue in Botswana, coaches often put up with a lot of both headaches and heartaches to implement their philosophies and tactics.

Happy Hearts have already lost a charity Challenge Cup to Gaborone United but the club conceded all their preparations are barely 40% before the start of the league. They signed 2 veterans and young players from Rahman Gumbo's Township Rollers reserves.

A professional of his calibre, Daka will have to compromise his stance and the local culture of doing football as a favour for the coach. Having been in those situations for years now, he must be aware of the situation but will be hoping to give Rahman Gumbo a run for his Pulas.

Rahman Gumbo made a fantastic start for Mochudi Chiefs registering a 4-0 win over Uniao Flamengo Santos and giving a bapstism of fire to new boys Black Peril, 8-1 but lost to Gunners 0-2. Willard Mshinkila Khumalo's Nico were crushed 6-1 by Township Rollers who climbed to the summit of the Botswana MOBILE Premier League over the weekend.

Botswana football in general is on the rise parlty because of the contribution of the Zimbabwean mentors but largely because the Botswana coach is nimplementing the Brazilian mentality of the game. Stanley Tshosane was in a class in which I was top coach in Brazil in 1999 as a fellow student.

Do you think Botswana football is relevant enough for your consumption on this blog?

Barry Daka On New Job

Former Notwane, ECCO City Greens and Police XI coach Barry Daka, will coach newly promoted Happy Hearts of Botswana. Barry coached Highlanders FC, Railstars FC, Zimbabwe national senior and junior teams even won the league with ECCO a few seasons back.

BBza was given a mandate to take the ambitious team to greatness. They want his experience in dealing with their youthful team. While professionalism is a big issue in Botswana, coaches often put up with a lot of both headaches and heartaches to implement their philosophies and tactics.

Happy Hearts have already lost a charity Challenge Cup to Gaborone United but the club conceded all their preparations are barely 40% before the start of the league. They signed 2 veterans and young players from Rahman Gumbo's Township Rollers reserves.

A professional of his calibre, Daka will have to compromise his stance and the local culture of doing football as a favour for the coach. Having been in those situations for years now, he must be aware of the situation but will be hoping to give Rahman Gumbo a run for his Pulas.

Rahman Gumbo made a fantastic start for Mochudi Chiefs registering a 4-0 win over Uniao Flamengo Santos and giving a bapstism of fire to new boys Black Peril, 8-1 but lost to Gunners 0-2. Willard Mshinkila Khumalo's Nico were crushed 6-1 by Township Rollers who climbed to the summit of the Botswana MOBILE Premier League over the weekend.

Botswana football in general is on the rise parlty because of the contribution of the Zimbabwean mentors but largely because the Botswana coach is nimplementing the Brazilian mentality of the game. Stanley Tshosane was in a class in which I was top coach in Brazil in 1999 as a fellow student.

Do you think Botswana football is relevant enough for your consumption on this blog?

Barry Daka On New Job

Former Notwane, ECCO City Greens and Police XI coach Barry Daka, will coach newly promoted Happy Hearts of Botswana. Barry coached Highlanders FC, Railstars FC, Zimbabwe national senior and junior teams even won the league with ECCO a few seasons back.

BBza was given a mandate to take the ambitious team to greatness. They want his experience in dealing with their youthful team. While professionalism is a big issue in Botswana, coaches often put up with a lot of both headaches and heartaches to implement their philosophies and tactics.

Happy Hearts have already lost a charity Challenge Cup to Gaborone United but the club conceded all their preparations are barely 40% before the start of the league. They signed 2 veterans and young players from Rahman Gumbo's Township Rollers reserves.

A professional of his calibre, Daka will have to compromise his stance and the local culture of doing football as a favour for the coach. Having been in those situations for years now, he must be aware of the situation but will be hoping to give Rahman Gumbo a run for his Pulas.

Rahman Gumbo made a fantastic start for Mochudi Chiefs registering a 4-0 win over Uniao Flamengo Santos and giving a bapstism of fire to new boys Black Peril, 8-1 but lost to Gunners 0-2. Willard Mshinkila Khumalo's Nico were crushed 6-1 by Township Rollers who climbed to the summit of the Botswana MOBILE Premier League over the weekend.

Botswana football in general is on the rise parlty because of the contribution of the Zimbabwean mentors but largely because the Botswana coach is nimplementing the Brazilian mentality of the game. Stanley Tshosane was in a class in which I was top coach in Brazil in 1999 as a fellow student.

Do you think Botswana football is relevant enough for your consumption on this blog?

I Am Looking For That Dog That Ate My CV.

As it turns out, the Warriors coaching job still up for grabs. Contrary to previous reports carried on this blog and elsewhere in the media, ZIFA are still to appoint the national mentor. The unfortunate and premature announcement was made on the basis of conducted the interviews and was leaked by a different football department altogether.  

Tom Saintfeit was named the said appointee. Saintfeit is currently coach of the Namibian national team and is said to be experiencing some tensions with his current employers. While he travelled with the team for their AFCON qualifier fixtures last week he may be leaving Namibia.

Tom has actually counted himself out of the race and even, there is a claim teams from abroad are interested in his services, particularly India. Former Highlanders and Amazulu boss, Cosmas Zulu, Botswana based Godfrey Tamirepi and Fabian Zulu are among the locals with an interest for the top job.

I am still looking for that dog that ate my CV. I will be trying to bribe one official only to push it through as I know I will pass the interview. Do you reckon ZIFA can meet my $25 000,00 salary demand? It's not really much in any case.

I Am Looking For That Dog That Ate My CV.

As it turns out, the Warriors coaching job still up for grabs. Contrary to previous reports carried on this blog and elsewhere in the media, ZIFA are still to appoint the national mentor. The unfortunate and premature announcement was made on the basis of conducted the interviews and was leaked by a different football department altogether.  

Tom Saintfeit was named the said appointee. Saintfeit is currently coach of the Namibian national team and is said to be experiencing some tensions with his current employers. While he travelled with the team for their AFCON qualifier fixtures last week he may be leaving Namibia.

Tom has actually counted himself out of the race and even, there is a claim teams from abroad are interested in his services, particularly India. Former Highlanders and Amazulu boss, Cosmas Zulu, Botswana based Godfrey Tamirepi and Fabian Zulu are among the locals with an interest for the top job.

I am still looking for that dog that ate my CV. I will be trying to bribe one official only to push it through as I know I will pass the interview. Do you reckon ZIFA can meet my $25 000,00 salary demand? It's not really much in any case.

I Am Looking For That Dog That Ate My CV.

As it turns out, the Warriors coaching job still up for grabs. Contrary to previous reports carried on this blog and elsewhere in the media, ZIFA are still to appoint the national mentor. The unfortunate and premature announcement was made on the basis of conducted the interviews and was leaked by a different football department altogether.  

Tom Saintfeit was named the said appointee. Saintfeit is currently coach of the Namibian national team and is said to be experiencing some tensions with his current employers. While he travelled with the team for their AFCON qualifier fixtures last week he may be leaving Namibia.

Tom has actually counted himself out of the race and even, there is a claim teams from abroad are interested in his services, particularly India. Former Highlanders and Amazulu boss, Cosmas Zulu, Botswana based Godfrey Tamirepi and Fabian Zulu are among the locals with an interest for the top job.

I am still looking for that dog that ate my CV. I will be trying to bribe one official only to push it through as I know I will pass the interview. Do you reckon ZIFA can meet my $25 000,00 salary demand? It's not really much in any case.

I Am Looking For That Dog That Ate My CV.

As it turns out, the Warriors coaching job still up for grabs. Contrary to previous reports carried on this blog and elsewhere in the media, ZIFA are still to appoint the national mentor. The unfortunate and premature announcement was made on the basis of conducted the interviews and was leaked by a different football department altogether.  

Tom Saintfeit was named the said appointee. Saintfeit is currently coach of the Namibian national team and is said to be experiencing some tensions with his current employers. While he travelled with the team for their AFCON qualifier fixtures last week he may be leaving Namibia.

Tom has actually counted himself out of the race and even, there is a claim teams from abroad are interested in his services, particularly India. Former Highlanders and Amazulu boss, Cosmas Zulu, Botswana based Godfrey Tamirepi and Fabian Zulu are among the locals with an interest for the top job.

I am still looking for that dog that ate my CV. I will be trying to bribe one official only to push it through as I know I will pass the interview. Do you reckon ZIFA can meet my $25 000,00 salary demand? It's not really much in any case.

Remembering - Gift Mpho Leremi

Gift Mpho Leremi will be remembered by many as the best midfielder Bafana Bafana never really had. The young right footed linkman blossomed in the Orlando Pirates ranks during the heydays of Lebohang Mokoena , and Joseph Dukuduku Makhanya. No team had joy when the trio were in town.

Leremi had great work-rate and scored long-range thunderous goals. He became the Bucaneers' king pin at a young age and when on song he was just a joy to watch. He was on the verge of cementing a Bafana Bafana position that was thought to be a moulded South African representative in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

So much was his influence that he made a debut at night in a Mandela Cup match at Ellis Park and showed no nerves at all despite the big occasion. Leremi was so much into his game that Mamelodi Sundowns paid a good sum to pry him off the Ghosts camp.

He moved to Sundowns where his form was emerging to maturity and was involved in the African safari matches with the Brazilians. He played in the Africa Champions' League and was enjoying his stay there.

As a player, he was a balanced dribbler with great vision and passed the ball well together with his fantastic scoring of essential goals. He was self motivated and knew where he wanted to be in his football and he enjoyed his football.

The world was denied to see Leremi's ingenuity at the world stage when the young player lost his life in a car accident. It was such a dark moment for football and his family, of course.

Remembering - Gift Mpho Leremi

Gift Mpho Leremi will be remembered by many as the best midfielder Bafana Bafana never really had. The young right footed linkman blossomed in the Orlando Pirates ranks during the heydays of Lebohang Mokoena , and Joseph Dukuduku Makhanya. No team had joy when the trio were in town.

Leremi had great work-rate and scored long-range thunderous goals. He became the Bucaneers' king pin at a young age and when on song he was just a joy to watch. He was on the verge of cementing a Bafana Bafana position that was thought to be a moulded South African representative in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

So much was his influence that he made a debut at night in a Mandela Cup match at Ellis Park and showed no nerves at all despite the big occasion. Leremi was so much into his game that Mamelodi Sundowns paid a good sum to pry him off the Ghosts camp.

He moved to Sundowns where his form was emerging to maturity and was involved in the African safari matches with the Brazilians. He played in the Africa Champions' League and was enjoying his stay there.

As a player, he was a balanced dribbler with great vision and passed the ball well together with his fantastic scoring of essential goals. He was self motivated and knew where he wanted to be in his football and he enjoyed his football.

The world was denied to see Leremi's ingenuity at the world stage when the young player lost his life in a car accident. It was such a dark moment for football and his family, of course.

Remembering - Gift Mpho Leremi

Gift Mpho Leremi will be remembered by many as the best midfielder Bafana Bafana never really had. The young right footed linkman blossomed in the Orlando Pirates ranks during the heydays of Lebohang Mokoena , and Joseph Dukuduku Makhanya. No team had joy when the trio were in town.

Leremi had great work-rate and scored long-range thunderous goals. He became the Bucaneers' king pin at a young age and when on song he was just a joy to watch. He was on the verge of cementing a Bafana Bafana position that was thought to be a moulded South African representative in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

So much was his influence that he made a debut at night in a Mandela Cup match at Ellis Park and showed no nerves at all despite the big occasion. Leremi was so much into his game that Mamelodi Sundowns paid a good sum to pry him off the Ghosts camp.

He moved to Sundowns where his form was emerging to maturity and was involved in the African safari matches with the Brazilians. He played in the Africa Champions' League and was enjoying his stay there.

As a player, he was a balanced dribbler with great vision and passed the ball well together with his fantastic scoring of essential goals. He was self motivated and knew where he wanted to be in his football and he enjoyed his football.

The world was denied to see Leremi's ingenuity at the world stage when the young player lost his life in a car accident. It was such a dark moment for football and his family, of course.

Remembering - Gift Mpho Leremi

Gift Mpho Leremi will be remembered by many as the best midfielder Bafana Bafana never really had. The young right footed linkman blossomed in the Orlando Pirates ranks during the heydays of Lebohang Mokoena , and Joseph Dukuduku Makhanya. No team had joy when the trio were in town.

Leremi had great work-rate and scored long-range thunderous goals. He became the Bucaneers' king pin at a young age and when on song he was just a joy to watch. He was on the verge of cementing a Bafana Bafana position that was thought to be a moulded South African representative in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

So much was his influence that he made a debut at night in a Mandela Cup match at Ellis Park and showed no nerves at all despite the big occasion. Leremi was so much into his game that Mamelodi Sundowns paid a good sum to pry him off the Ghosts camp.

He moved to Sundowns where his form was emerging to maturity and was involved in the African safari matches with the Brazilians. He played in the Africa Champions' League and was enjoying his stay there.

As a player, he was a balanced dribbler with great vision and passed the ball well together with his fantastic scoring of essential goals. He was self motivated and knew where he wanted to be in his football and he enjoyed his football.

The world was denied to see Leremi's ingenuity at the world stage when the young player lost his life in a car accident. It was such a dark moment for football and his family, of course.

AD HOC Arbitration Committee Judgement: BancABC Semi-Final Match.

Introduction.

The judgement summary dated 03 September 2010, of the Ad Hoc Committee chaired by Mr. Don Moyo and comprising Mr Brighton Mudzamiri and Mr Cuthbert Chitima, over the Highlanders Football Club and Dynamos Football Club BancABC Cup semi-final played at Barbourfields on the 21st of August 2010, were based on their investigation from: (a) the referee’s report (b) Highlanders’s report (c) Dynamos’s report (d) Police report by the Officer In Charge (ZRP Njube ) (e) a DVD for the match.

a) The Referee's Report Summary.

The referee said Highlanders FC were awarded a penalty in the 70 minute, Dynamos players walked off summoned by their coach Elvis Chiweshe and team manager Nyika Chifamba and remained off the pitch for 35 minutes. In the 81st minute Highlanders players protested a penalty awarded to Dynamos and were called off the pitch by their technical manager M. Fathi and remained in their dressing room for 28 minutes after which Highlanders came back and the referee called both captains and advised them that due to bad light it was no longer possible to continue with the game.

b) The Highlanders Report Summary.

Highlanders’s report highlighted Washington Arubi and Ashley Rambanepasi’s conduct, their supporters would not have thrown missiles into the field of play. They further argued that by leaving the field of play after they had been awarded a penalty Dynamos automatically disqualified themselves in terms of the rules of the cup competition. They stressed their walkout they stressed had no bearing on the game as the match was no longer a competitive match but a social one. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

c) Dynamos Report Summary.

Dynamos defended their walkout stating that their players queried the referee’s decision in awarding Bosso the 70th minute penalty. Highlanders supporters started throwing missiles onto the pitch resulting in one of their players being struck by a missile. They walked off the pitch for the safety of their players, and when they were ready to play, the referee and Highlanders captain said they could not citing bad light. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

d) Police Report.

The police report which in all respects corroborates the video evidence was also a useful piece of independent evidence. It talks of the raining of missiles after Dynamos disputed the 70th minute penalty awarded to Highlanders and their increase when Ashley Rambanepasi threw back one of the missiles though the missile landed within the ground.

It further states that their action was loudly supported by their fans and those on the Soweto stands again started throwing missiles into the ground. The fans were urging Highlanders to abandon the match. According to the report the Highlanders fans were now doing everything possible to ensure that the match was permanently abandoned. This piece of evidence is even corroborated by the Highlanders report where they state that their own fans were threatening them not to continue with the match and actually blocked the tunnel for them not to enter the field of play.

e) Video Evidence.

Video evidence was the most independent the committee had and ultimately assisted them to a great extent in coming up with their findings. The committee observed a spirited effort by the Highlanders Chairman, T. Ndhlela, team manager D. Mloyi and team secretary A. Tapela to persuade the Highlanders players to continue with the match there was an equally spirited effort by the Highlanders coach M. Fathi to dissuade the players from continuing.

The coach was the first one to enter the field of play and appeared to be physically moving the players off the pitch. Eventually Highlanders walked off the pitch. When they returned after 28 minutes the referee called off the match. In the intervening period police were having running battles with Highlanders supporters and eventually had to summon a water cannon vehicle to disperse the rowdy crowd.

Findings, and I quote:

"The above is the evidence that was before us. As already indicated our mandate is to investigate the cause(s) leading to the abandonment of the match and thereafter come up with a decision on the way forward. Our first finding was that the match was abandoned in the 81^st minute of play. The referee called off the match because of bad light. Highlanders aver that in terms of the rules of the competition, particularly rule 5.6 the match was over and abandoned when Dynamos refused to play and left the stadium before the end of the match when protesting the 70^th minute penalty awarded against them. We hold a different view. We consider this to be a stoppage of a match, which stoppage was no equivalent to an abandonment.

We are fortified in this view because when Dynamos trooped back onto the pitch, the referee resumed play and continued with it. In terms of the laws of the game the referee is the man in charge and if he continues with the game, it can not be alleged, as Highlanders does, that the game had been abandoned. Interpretation of rule 5.6 in our view is that as long as play resumed and continued after the 70^th minute, Dynamos’s act of leaving the field can not be classified as leaving the stadium before the end of the match or refusing to play. Highlanders are therefore incorrect to hold the view that after resumption of the match in the 71^st minute the game was now a social match and had been abandoned.

 It is common cause that there were two walkouts involving both Dynamos and Highlanders. We now turn to look at the reasons proffered by both clubs for so doing and if there is any supporting evidence to that end.

 The reason given by Dynamos is that of safety of their players. It can not be disputed that missiles were raining onto the pitch and that one of their players was stretchered off the pitch after being struck by a missile. We make a finding that because of threat to their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch.

The reason advanced by Highlanders that the match had ceased to be a competitive match, was now a social match and was now null and void has already been addressed earlier on in this judgement.

As to the point of which they themselves walked off the pitch they blame poor refereeing and because of poor refereeing their fans were incensed, started throwing missiles onto the pitch and threatened them and made it impossible to continue with the game. The fans even blocked the tunnel. We make a finding that Highlanders supporters and Highlanders coach were responsible for Highlanders leaving the field of play.

What emerges as a common factor in both walkouts by Dynamos and Highlanders respectively is the role played by Highlanders supporters. Their role sticks out ugly. We accept as a fact that for their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch. Highlanders on their own part were threatened by their own supporters not to continue with the match. In fact the supporters by raining missiles onto the pitch made it virtually impossible to continue. As a direct result of the supporters’s actions and unruly behaviour the referee called off the match as it was dark to continue. Time had been lost in between the two walk outs by the respective teams.

In view of the above finding of fact what then is the legal position? The legal position is that in terms of the Premier Soccer League rules and regulations, rule 17.4 thereof the home team shall be responsible for the behaviour of its spectators, BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER the match until the stadium is cleared of all persons. In the circumstances we find Highlanders responsible for the unsporting, rowdy and riotous behaviour of its supporters as Highlanders were the home team. Ultimately we find Highlanders responsible for the abandonment of the match. In terms of the rules of the competition, rule 4.1.1 on entering the competition clubs and their players and officials automatically undertake to observe and comply with FIFA, ZIFA and PSL statutes, regulations, directives, circulars, guidelines, decision as well as national and international laws.

The committee is very much alive to the various acts and unsporting behaviour by various individuals from Dynamos and Highlanders. In this respect it is pertinent that we mention Ashley Rambanepasi, Elvis Chiweshe, Nyika Chifamba and M. Fathi and recommend that disciplinary action be taken against them for their various roles in the stoppages involved in the match. We also recommend that for their walkouts the two clubs be also brought for a hearing. We feel we have to single out and commend the Highlanders Chairman Mr. T. Ndhlela, the team Manager D. Mloyi and Secretary A. Tapela for the manner they conducted themselves in the ongoing melee. They are true ambassadors of football.

We further emphasise that nowhere in the world are supporters allowed to determine the fate and destiny of a match by their conduct save obviously in a situation where they are cheering their team vociferously. If the referee has a poor day at the office, as in casu, these are matters to be dealt with in a different forum. Decisions regarding facts connected with play are the referee’s domain and such decisions are final. However we strongly urge the PSL to write to the referee’s committee with a view to addressing the poor standard of officiating.

Having made the finding that Highlanders were responsible for the abandonment of the match we pronounce and declare that the match in which Highlanders took part as lost by the club concerned and won by Dynamos on a 3 –0 scoreline as per the rules."

AD HOC Arbitration Committee Judgement: BancABC Semi-Final Match.

Introduction.

The judgement summary dated 03 September 2010, of the Ad Hoc Committee chaired by Mr. Don Moyo and comprising Mr Brighton Mudzamiri and Mr Cuthbert Chitima, over the Highlanders Football Club and Dynamos Football Club BancABC Cup semi-final played at Barbourfields on the 21st of August 2010, were based on their investigation from: (a) the referee’s report (b) Highlanders’s report (c) Dynamos’s report (d) Police report by the Officer In Charge (ZRP Njube ) (e) a DVD for the match.

a) The Referee's Report Summary.

The referee said Highlanders FC were awarded a penalty in the 70 minute, Dynamos players walked off summoned by their coach Elvis Chiweshe and team manager Nyika Chifamba and remained off the pitch for 35 minutes. In the 81st minute Highlanders players protested a penalty awarded to Dynamos and were called off the pitch by their technical manager M. Fathi and remained in their dressing room for 28 minutes after which Highlanders came back and the referee called both captains and advised them that due to bad light it was no longer possible to continue with the game.

b) The Highlanders Report Summary.

Highlanders’s report highlighted Washington Arubi and Ashley Rambanepasi’s conduct, their supporters would not have thrown missiles into the field of play. They further argued that by leaving the field of play after they had been awarded a penalty Dynamos automatically disqualified themselves in terms of the rules of the cup competition. They stressed their walkout they stressed had no bearing on the game as the match was no longer a competitive match but a social one. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

c) Dynamos Report Summary.

Dynamos defended their walkout stating that their players queried the referee’s decision in awarding Bosso the 70th minute penalty. Highlanders supporters started throwing missiles onto the pitch resulting in one of their players being struck by a missile. They walked off the pitch for the safety of their players, and when they were ready to play, the referee and Highlanders captain said they could not citing bad light. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

d) Police Report.

The police report which in all respects corroborates the video evidence was also a useful piece of independent evidence. It talks of the raining of missiles after Dynamos disputed the 70th minute penalty awarded to Highlanders and their increase when Ashley Rambanepasi threw back one of the missiles though the missile landed within the ground.

It further states that their action was loudly supported by their fans and those on the Soweto stands again started throwing missiles into the ground. The fans were urging Highlanders to abandon the match. According to the report the Highlanders fans were now doing everything possible to ensure that the match was permanently abandoned. This piece of evidence is even corroborated by the Highlanders report where they state that their own fans were threatening them not to continue with the match and actually blocked the tunnel for them not to enter the field of play.

e) Video Evidence.

Video evidence was the most independent the committee had and ultimately assisted them to a great extent in coming up with their findings. The committee observed a spirited effort by the Highlanders Chairman, T. Ndhlela, team manager D. Mloyi and team secretary A. Tapela to persuade the Highlanders players to continue with the match there was an equally spirited effort by the Highlanders coach M. Fathi to dissuade the players from continuing.

The coach was the first one to enter the field of play and appeared to be physically moving the players off the pitch. Eventually Highlanders walked off the pitch. When they returned after 28 minutes the referee called off the match. In the intervening period police were having running battles with Highlanders supporters and eventually had to summon a water cannon vehicle to disperse the rowdy crowd.

Findings, and I quote:

"The above is the evidence that was before us. As already indicated our mandate is to investigate the cause(s) leading to the abandonment of the match and thereafter come up with a decision on the way forward. Our first finding was that the match was abandoned in the 81^st minute of play. The referee called off the match because of bad light. Highlanders aver that in terms of the rules of the competition, particularly rule 5.6 the match was over and abandoned when Dynamos refused to play and left the stadium before the end of the match when protesting the 70^th minute penalty awarded against them. We hold a different view. We consider this to be a stoppage of a match, which stoppage was no equivalent to an abandonment.

We are fortified in this view because when Dynamos trooped back onto the pitch, the referee resumed play and continued with it. In terms of the laws of the game the referee is the man in charge and if he continues with the game, it can not be alleged, as Highlanders does, that the game had been abandoned. Interpretation of rule 5.6 in our view is that as long as play resumed and continued after the 70^th minute, Dynamos’s act of leaving the field can not be classified as leaving the stadium before the end of the match or refusing to play. Highlanders are therefore incorrect to hold the view that after resumption of the match in the 71^st minute the game was now a social match and had been abandoned.

 It is common cause that there were two walkouts involving both Dynamos and Highlanders. We now turn to look at the reasons proffered by both clubs for so doing and if there is any supporting evidence to that end.

 The reason given by Dynamos is that of safety of their players. It can not be disputed that missiles were raining onto the pitch and that one of their players was stretchered off the pitch after being struck by a missile. We make a finding that because of threat to their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch.

The reason advanced by Highlanders that the match had ceased to be a competitive match, was now a social match and was now null and void has already been addressed earlier on in this judgement.

As to the point of which they themselves walked off the pitch they blame poor refereeing and because of poor refereeing their fans were incensed, started throwing missiles onto the pitch and threatened them and made it impossible to continue with the game. The fans even blocked the tunnel. We make a finding that Highlanders supporters and Highlanders coach were responsible for Highlanders leaving the field of play.

What emerges as a common factor in both walkouts by Dynamos and Highlanders respectively is the role played by Highlanders supporters. Their role sticks out ugly. We accept as a fact that for their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch. Highlanders on their own part were threatened by their own supporters not to continue with the match. In fact the supporters by raining missiles onto the pitch made it virtually impossible to continue. As a direct result of the supporters’s actions and unruly behaviour the referee called off the match as it was dark to continue. Time had been lost in between the two walk outs by the respective teams.

In view of the above finding of fact what then is the legal position? The legal position is that in terms of the Premier Soccer League rules and regulations, rule 17.4 thereof the home team shall be responsible for the behaviour of its spectators, BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER the match until the stadium is cleared of all persons. In the circumstances we find Highlanders responsible for the unsporting, rowdy and riotous behaviour of its supporters as Highlanders were the home team. Ultimately we find Highlanders responsible for the abandonment of the match. In terms of the rules of the competition, rule 4.1.1 on entering the competition clubs and their players and officials automatically undertake to observe and comply with FIFA, ZIFA and PSL statutes, regulations, directives, circulars, guidelines, decision as well as national and international laws.

The committee is very much alive to the various acts and unsporting behaviour by various individuals from Dynamos and Highlanders. In this respect it is pertinent that we mention Ashley Rambanepasi, Elvis Chiweshe, Nyika Chifamba and M. Fathi and recommend that disciplinary action be taken against them for their various roles in the stoppages involved in the match. We also recommend that for their walkouts the two clubs be also brought for a hearing. We feel we have to single out and commend the Highlanders Chairman Mr. T. Ndhlela, the team Manager D. Mloyi and Secretary A. Tapela for the manner they conducted themselves in the ongoing melee. They are true ambassadors of football.

We further emphasise that nowhere in the world are supporters allowed to determine the fate and destiny of a match by their conduct save obviously in a situation where they are cheering their team vociferously. If the referee has a poor day at the office, as in casu, these are matters to be dealt with in a different forum. Decisions regarding facts connected with play are the referee’s domain and such decisions are final. However we strongly urge the PSL to write to the referee’s committee with a view to addressing the poor standard of officiating.

Having made the finding that Highlanders were responsible for the abandonment of the match we pronounce and declare that the match in which Highlanders took part as lost by the club concerned and won by Dynamos on a 3 –0 scoreline as per the rules."

AD HOC Arbitration Committee Judgement: BancABC Semi-Final Match.

Introduction.

The judgement summary dated 03 September 2010, of the Ad Hoc Committee chaired by Mr. Don Moyo and comprising Mr Brighton Mudzamiri and Mr Cuthbert Chitima, over the Highlanders Football Club and Dynamos Football Club BancABC Cup semi-final played at Barbourfields on the 21st of August 2010, were based on their investigation from: (a) the referee’s report (b) Highlanders’s report (c) Dynamos’s report (d) Police report by the Officer In Charge (ZRP Njube ) (e) a DVD for the match.

a) The Referee's Report Summary.

The referee said Highlanders FC were awarded a penalty in the 70 minute, Dynamos players walked off summoned by their coach Elvis Chiweshe and team manager Nyika Chifamba and remained off the pitch for 35 minutes. In the 81st minute Highlanders players protested a penalty awarded to Dynamos and were called off the pitch by their technical manager M. Fathi and remained in their dressing room for 28 minutes after which Highlanders came back and the referee called both captains and advised them that due to bad light it was no longer possible to continue with the game.

b) The Highlanders Report Summary.

Highlanders’s report highlighted Washington Arubi and Ashley Rambanepasi’s conduct, their supporters would not have thrown missiles into the field of play. They further argued that by leaving the field of play after they had been awarded a penalty Dynamos automatically disqualified themselves in terms of the rules of the cup competition. They stressed their walkout they stressed had no bearing on the game as the match was no longer a competitive match but a social one. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

c) Dynamos Report Summary.

Dynamos defended their walkout stating that their players queried the referee’s decision in awarding Bosso the 70th minute penalty. Highlanders supporters started throwing missiles onto the pitch resulting in one of their players being struck by a missile. They walked off the pitch for the safety of their players, and when they were ready to play, the referee and Highlanders captain said they could not citing bad light. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

d) Police Report.

The police report which in all respects corroborates the video evidence was also a useful piece of independent evidence. It talks of the raining of missiles after Dynamos disputed the 70th minute penalty awarded to Highlanders and their increase when Ashley Rambanepasi threw back one of the missiles though the missile landed within the ground.

It further states that their action was loudly supported by their fans and those on the Soweto stands again started throwing missiles into the ground. The fans were urging Highlanders to abandon the match. According to the report the Highlanders fans were now doing everything possible to ensure that the match was permanently abandoned. This piece of evidence is even corroborated by the Highlanders report where they state that their own fans were threatening them not to continue with the match and actually blocked the tunnel for them not to enter the field of play.

e) Video Evidence.

Video evidence was the most independent the committee had and ultimately assisted them to a great extent in coming up with their findings. The committee observed a spirited effort by the Highlanders Chairman, T. Ndhlela, team manager D. Mloyi and team secretary A. Tapela to persuade the Highlanders players to continue with the match there was an equally spirited effort by the Highlanders coach M. Fathi to dissuade the players from continuing.

The coach was the first one to enter the field of play and appeared to be physically moving the players off the pitch. Eventually Highlanders walked off the pitch. When they returned after 28 minutes the referee called off the match. In the intervening period police were having running battles with Highlanders supporters and eventually had to summon a water cannon vehicle to disperse the rowdy crowd.

Findings, and I quote:

"The above is the evidence that was before us. As already indicated our mandate is to investigate the cause(s) leading to the abandonment of the match and thereafter come up with a decision on the way forward. Our first finding was that the match was abandoned in the 81^st minute of play. The referee called off the match because of bad light. Highlanders aver that in terms of the rules of the competition, particularly rule 5.6 the match was over and abandoned when Dynamos refused to play and left the stadium before the end of the match when protesting the 70^th minute penalty awarded against them. We hold a different view. We consider this to be a stoppage of a match, which stoppage was no equivalent to an abandonment.

We are fortified in this view because when Dynamos trooped back onto the pitch, the referee resumed play and continued with it. In terms of the laws of the game the referee is the man in charge and if he continues with the game, it can not be alleged, as Highlanders does, that the game had been abandoned. Interpretation of rule 5.6 in our view is that as long as play resumed and continued after the 70^th minute, Dynamos’s act of leaving the field can not be classified as leaving the stadium before the end of the match or refusing to play. Highlanders are therefore incorrect to hold the view that after resumption of the match in the 71^st minute the game was now a social match and had been abandoned.

 It is common cause that there were two walkouts involving both Dynamos and Highlanders. We now turn to look at the reasons proffered by both clubs for so doing and if there is any supporting evidence to that end.

 The reason given by Dynamos is that of safety of their players. It can not be disputed that missiles were raining onto the pitch and that one of their players was stretchered off the pitch after being struck by a missile. We make a finding that because of threat to their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch.

The reason advanced by Highlanders that the match had ceased to be a competitive match, was now a social match and was now null and void has already been addressed earlier on in this judgement.

As to the point of which they themselves walked off the pitch they blame poor refereeing and because of poor refereeing their fans were incensed, started throwing missiles onto the pitch and threatened them and made it impossible to continue with the game. The fans even blocked the tunnel. We make a finding that Highlanders supporters and Highlanders coach were responsible for Highlanders leaving the field of play.

What emerges as a common factor in both walkouts by Dynamos and Highlanders respectively is the role played by Highlanders supporters. Their role sticks out ugly. We accept as a fact that for their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch. Highlanders on their own part were threatened by their own supporters not to continue with the match. In fact the supporters by raining missiles onto the pitch made it virtually impossible to continue. As a direct result of the supporters’s actions and unruly behaviour the referee called off the match as it was dark to continue. Time had been lost in between the two walk outs by the respective teams.

In view of the above finding of fact what then is the legal position? The legal position is that in terms of the Premier Soccer League rules and regulations, rule 17.4 thereof the home team shall be responsible for the behaviour of its spectators, BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER the match until the stadium is cleared of all persons. In the circumstances we find Highlanders responsible for the unsporting, rowdy and riotous behaviour of its supporters as Highlanders were the home team. Ultimately we find Highlanders responsible for the abandonment of the match. In terms of the rules of the competition, rule 4.1.1 on entering the competition clubs and their players and officials automatically undertake to observe and comply with FIFA, ZIFA and PSL statutes, regulations, directives, circulars, guidelines, decision as well as national and international laws.

The committee is very much alive to the various acts and unsporting behaviour by various individuals from Dynamos and Highlanders. In this respect it is pertinent that we mention Ashley Rambanepasi, Elvis Chiweshe, Nyika Chifamba and M. Fathi and recommend that disciplinary action be taken against them for their various roles in the stoppages involved in the match. We also recommend that for their walkouts the two clubs be also brought for a hearing. We feel we have to single out and commend the Highlanders Chairman Mr. T. Ndhlela, the team Manager D. Mloyi and Secretary A. Tapela for the manner they conducted themselves in the ongoing melee. They are true ambassadors of football.

We further emphasise that nowhere in the world are supporters allowed to determine the fate and destiny of a match by their conduct save obviously in a situation where they are cheering their team vociferously. If the referee has a poor day at the office, as in casu, these are matters to be dealt with in a different forum. Decisions regarding facts connected with play are the referee’s domain and such decisions are final. However we strongly urge the PSL to write to the referee’s committee with a view to addressing the poor standard of officiating.

Having made the finding that Highlanders were responsible for the abandonment of the match we pronounce and declare that the match in which Highlanders took part as lost by the club concerned and won by Dynamos on a 3 –0 scoreline as per the rules."

AD HOC Arbitration Committee Judgement: BancABC Semi-Final Match.

Introduction.

The judgement summary dated 03 September 2010, of the Ad Hoc Committee chaired by Mr. Don Moyo and comprising Mr Brighton Mudzamiri and Mr Cuthbert Chitima, over the Highlanders Football Club and Dynamos Football Club BancABC Cup semi-final played at Barbourfields on the 21st of August 2010, were based on their investigation from: (a) the referee’s report (b) Highlanders’s report (c) Dynamos’s report (d) Police report by the Officer In Charge (ZRP Njube ) (e) a DVD for the match.

a) The Referee's Report Summary.

The referee said Highlanders FC were awarded a penalty in the 70 minute, Dynamos players walked off summoned by their coach Elvis Chiweshe and team manager Nyika Chifamba and remained off the pitch for 35 minutes. In the 81st minute Highlanders players protested a penalty awarded to Dynamos and were called off the pitch by their technical manager M. Fathi and remained in their dressing room for 28 minutes after which Highlanders came back and the referee called both captains and advised them that due to bad light it was no longer possible to continue with the game.

b) The Highlanders Report Summary.

Highlanders’s report highlighted Washington Arubi and Ashley Rambanepasi’s conduct, their supporters would not have thrown missiles into the field of play. They further argued that by leaving the field of play after they had been awarded a penalty Dynamos automatically disqualified themselves in terms of the rules of the cup competition. They stressed their walkout they stressed had no bearing on the game as the match was no longer a competitive match but a social one. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

c) Dynamos Report Summary.

Dynamos defended their walkout stating that their players queried the referee’s decision in awarding Bosso the 70th minute penalty. Highlanders supporters started throwing missiles onto the pitch resulting in one of their players being struck by a missile. They walked off the pitch for the safety of their players, and when they were ready to play, the referee and Highlanders captain said they could not citing bad light. They also found fault with the way the referee handled the match.

d) Police Report.

The police report which in all respects corroborates the video evidence was also a useful piece of independent evidence. It talks of the raining of missiles after Dynamos disputed the 70th minute penalty awarded to Highlanders and their increase when Ashley Rambanepasi threw back one of the missiles though the missile landed within the ground.

It further states that their action was loudly supported by their fans and those on the Soweto stands again started throwing missiles into the ground. The fans were urging Highlanders to abandon the match. According to the report the Highlanders fans were now doing everything possible to ensure that the match was permanently abandoned. This piece of evidence is even corroborated by the Highlanders report where they state that their own fans were threatening them not to continue with the match and actually blocked the tunnel for them not to enter the field of play.

e) Video Evidence.

Video evidence was the most independent the committee had and ultimately assisted them to a great extent in coming up with their findings. The committee observed a spirited effort by the Highlanders Chairman, T. Ndhlela, team manager D. Mloyi and team secretary A. Tapela to persuade the Highlanders players to continue with the match there was an equally spirited effort by the Highlanders coach M. Fathi to dissuade the players from continuing.

The coach was the first one to enter the field of play and appeared to be physically moving the players off the pitch. Eventually Highlanders walked off the pitch. When they returned after 28 minutes the referee called off the match. In the intervening period police were having running battles with Highlanders supporters and eventually had to summon a water cannon vehicle to disperse the rowdy crowd.

Findings, and I quote:

"The above is the evidence that was before us. As already indicated our mandate is to investigate the cause(s) leading to the abandonment of the match and thereafter come up with a decision on the way forward. Our first finding was that the match was abandoned in the 81^st minute of play. The referee called off the match because of bad light. Highlanders aver that in terms of the rules of the competition, particularly rule 5.6 the match was over and abandoned when Dynamos refused to play and left the stadium before the end of the match when protesting the 70^th minute penalty awarded against them. We hold a different view. We consider this to be a stoppage of a match, which stoppage was no equivalent to an abandonment.

We are fortified in this view because when Dynamos trooped back onto the pitch, the referee resumed play and continued with it. In terms of the laws of the game the referee is the man in charge and if he continues with the game, it can not be alleged, as Highlanders does, that the game had been abandoned. Interpretation of rule 5.6 in our view is that as long as play resumed and continued after the 70^th minute, Dynamos’s act of leaving the field can not be classified as leaving the stadium before the end of the match or refusing to play. Highlanders are therefore incorrect to hold the view that after resumption of the match in the 71^st minute the game was now a social match and had been abandoned.

 It is common cause that there were two walkouts involving both Dynamos and Highlanders. We now turn to look at the reasons proffered by both clubs for so doing and if there is any supporting evidence to that end.

 The reason given by Dynamos is that of safety of their players. It can not be disputed that missiles were raining onto the pitch and that one of their players was stretchered off the pitch after being struck by a missile. We make a finding that because of threat to their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch.

The reason advanced by Highlanders that the match had ceased to be a competitive match, was now a social match and was now null and void has already been addressed earlier on in this judgement.

As to the point of which they themselves walked off the pitch they blame poor refereeing and because of poor refereeing their fans were incensed, started throwing missiles onto the pitch and threatened them and made it impossible to continue with the game. The fans even blocked the tunnel. We make a finding that Highlanders supporters and Highlanders coach were responsible for Highlanders leaving the field of play.

What emerges as a common factor in both walkouts by Dynamos and Highlanders respectively is the role played by Highlanders supporters. Their role sticks out ugly. We accept as a fact that for their safety Dynamos walked off the pitch. Highlanders on their own part were threatened by their own supporters not to continue with the match. In fact the supporters by raining missiles onto the pitch made it virtually impossible to continue. As a direct result of the supporters’s actions and unruly behaviour the referee called off the match as it was dark to continue. Time had been lost in between the two walk outs by the respective teams.

In view of the above finding of fact what then is the legal position? The legal position is that in terms of the Premier Soccer League rules and regulations, rule 17.4 thereof the home team shall be responsible for the behaviour of its spectators, BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER the match until the stadium is cleared of all persons. In the circumstances we find Highlanders responsible for the unsporting, rowdy and riotous behaviour of its supporters as Highlanders were the home team. Ultimately we find Highlanders responsible for the abandonment of the match. In terms of the rules of the competition, rule 4.1.1 on entering the competition clubs and their players and officials automatically undertake to observe and comply with FIFA, ZIFA and PSL statutes, regulations, directives, circulars, guidelines, decision as well as national and international laws.

The committee is very much alive to the various acts and unsporting behaviour by various individuals from Dynamos and Highlanders. In this respect it is pertinent that we mention Ashley Rambanepasi, Elvis Chiweshe, Nyika Chifamba and M. Fathi and recommend that disciplinary action be taken against them for their various roles in the stoppages involved in the match. We also recommend that for their walkouts the two clubs be also brought for a hearing. We feel we have to single out and commend the Highlanders Chairman Mr. T. Ndhlela, the team Manager D. Mloyi and Secretary A. Tapela for the manner they conducted themselves in the ongoing melee. They are true ambassadors of football.

We further emphasise that nowhere in the world are supporters allowed to determine the fate and destiny of a match by their conduct save obviously in a situation where they are cheering their team vociferously. If the referee has a poor day at the office, as in casu, these are matters to be dealt with in a different forum. Decisions regarding facts connected with play are the referee’s domain and such decisions are final. However we strongly urge the PSL to write to the referee’s committee with a view to addressing the poor standard of officiating.

Having made the finding that Highlanders were responsible for the abandonment of the match we pronounce and declare that the match in which Highlanders took part as lost by the club concerned and won by Dynamos on a 3 –0 scoreline as per the rules."

Tottenham Hotspurs Set To Sign South African Defender.

Manchester City sent shivers down a few spines with 'men at work' like attitude when they subdued Liverpool by a 3-0 scoreline. The result is of no consequence to me. The fact, after that match, is that Tottenham Hotspurs are better than Liverpool FC, and of course, taking into consideration last week's match into account, that Spurs are at par with the dearly assembled City.

The fact that  Bongani Khumalo is a wanted man at White Hart Lane by Harry Redknapp, means that South Africa can still produce class. Khumalo is on trial with English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur, having left on Saturday. Arry, who likes quality and class, invited the Bafana Bafana's Supersport defender to London for a week and hopefully will make the grade.  

Khumalo made a grade for the Bafana line-up by default, because Supersport team-mate, Morgan Gould, was injured. The 23-year-old defender rose majestically with distinguished performances and the first goal Bafana scored against France in Bloemfontein. Spurs will surely do with the confidence Bongani got for his antics during the FIFA World Cup.

Tottenham visited South Africa a few years ago, playing against a very hot Orlando Pirates that boasted of the services of Lesley Manyathela, Thabo Mngomeni and Captain Long John Mabizela. Glenn Hoddle, Spurs coach then, was so incensed by the African 'shoe-shine piano' and he made an official complaint of the disrespect the hosts showed to the visitors. Spurs had to resort to rugby tackles to deal with 'shibobo after shibobo'. The exploits of Mabizela earned him a big contract at Spurs.

Mabizela did not disappoint in London, coming in as a 2nd half substitute in the defensive link position, belting a thunderous goal from just outside the centre circle. Khumalo may not fill in those shoes but he is solid enough to make a name in the Premiership.

Tottenham Hotspurs Set To Sign South African Defender.

Manchester City sent shivers down a few spines with 'men at work' like attitude when they subdued Liverpool by a 3-0 scoreline. The result is of no consequence to me. The fact, after that match, is that Tottenham Hotspurs are better than Liverpool FC, and of course, taking into consideration last week's match into account, that Spurs are at par with the dearly assembled City.

The fact that  Bongani Khumalo is a wanted man at White Hart Lane by Harry Redknapp, means that South Africa can still produce class. Khumalo is on trial with English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur, having left on Saturday. Arry, who likes quality and class, invited the Bafana Bafana's Supersport defender to London for a week and hopefully will make the grade.  

Khumalo made a grade for the Bafana line-up by default, because Supersport team-mate, Morgan Gould, was injured. The 23-year-old defender rose majestically with distinguished performances and the first goal Bafana scored against France in Bloemfontein. Spurs will surely do with the confidence Bongani got for his antics during the FIFA World Cup.

Tottenham visited South Africa a few years ago, playing against a very hot Orlando Pirates that boasted of the services of Lesley Manyathela, Thabo Mngomeni and Captain Long John Mabizela. Glenn Hoddle, Spurs coach then, was so incensed by the African 'shoe-shine piano' and he made an official complaint of the disrespect the hosts showed to the visitors. Spurs had to resort to rugby tackles to deal with 'shibobo after shibobo'. The exploits of Mabizela earned him a big contract at Spurs.

Mabizela did not disappoint in London, coming in as a 2nd half substitute in the defensive link position, belting a thunderous goal from just outside the centre circle. Khumalo may not fill in those shoes but he is solid enough to make a name in the Premiership.

Tottenham Hotspurs Set To Sign South African Defender.

Manchester City sent shivers down a few spines with 'men at work' like attitude when they subdued Liverpool by a 3-0 scoreline. The result is of no consequence to me. The fact, after that match, is that Tottenham Hotspurs are better than Liverpool FC, and of course, taking into consideration last week's match into account, that Spurs are at par with the dearly assembled City.

The fact that  Bongani Khumalo is a wanted man at White Hart Lane by Harry Redknapp, means that South Africa can still produce class. Khumalo is on trial with English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur, having left on Saturday. Arry, who likes quality and class, invited the Bafana Bafana's Supersport defender to London for a week and hopefully will make the grade.  

Khumalo made a grade for the Bafana line-up by default, because Supersport team-mate, Morgan Gould, was injured. The 23-year-old defender rose majestically with distinguished performances and the first goal Bafana scored against France in Bloemfontein. Spurs will surely do with the confidence Bongani got for his antics during the FIFA World Cup.

Tottenham visited South Africa a few years ago, playing against a very hot Orlando Pirates that boasted of the services of Lesley Manyathela, Thabo Mngomeni and Captain Long John Mabizela. Glenn Hoddle, Spurs coach then, was so incensed by the African 'shoe-shine piano' and he made an official complaint of the disrespect the hosts showed to the visitors. Spurs had to resort to rugby tackles to deal with 'shibobo after shibobo'. The exploits of Mabizela earned him a big contract at Spurs.

Mabizela did not disappoint in London, coming in as a 2nd half substitute in the defensive link position, belting a thunderous goal from just outside the centre circle. Khumalo may not fill in those shoes but he is solid enough to make a name in the Premiership.