The Premier Soccer League has expressed concern over the poor officiating in the domestic Premiership following the violence that erupted at Mandava leading to the abandonment of the match between FC Platinum and Highlanders on Saturday.
The PSL said it has received a number of complaints from clubs and have urged the Zifa Referees Committee to investigate the referees.
“While we do not condone the acts of violence, we would like to note that we have received numerous complaints regarding the performance of match officials at PSL matches and we would like to implore the Zifa referees committee to seriously look into the matter,” the PSL said.
The league said they have received the match report for the FC Platinum and Highlanders but still waiting for reports from the police before they institute disciplinary proceedings.
The PSL said they are concerned with the acts of violence and hooliganism at their matches urging clubs to engage their fans on the issue.
The FC Platinum/Highlanders tie was abandoned eight minutes before full time as Bosso fans invaded the pitch after the hosts were awarded a penalty which they disputed.
The violence started at the venue spilled into town and the police have since arrested 15 people.
“The Premier Soccer League has received match reports from FC Platinum and Highlanders FC following incidents of crowd trouble that occurred during a Castle Lager PSL match on 23 April 2022 at Mandava Stadium. We are currently awaiting a report from the Zimbabwe Republic Police before commencing disciplinary procedures,” the PSL said.
“The PSL is concerned about acts of violence and hooliganism in football and is currently engaging all relevant stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
“We urge clubs to engage their supporters to refrain from breaching PSL Rules and
Regulations to ensure safety at football matches. Fans should be aware that the referee’s decision is final. Encroaching onto the pitch before, during and after a match is an offence that results in a serious punishment for clubs,” the league said.