Probe after hooligans ‘attacked’ Zebras

NCERA Leopards have lodged a complaint with Border Rugby against Ngculu Zebras after they were allegedly assaulted by supporters of the Ngqamakwe-based outfit during their away game over the weekend.

Leopards won the match 32-21 and were leading 23-3 when the alleged brawl took place next to the pitch.

The Daily Dispatch understands that a group of the host’s supporters insinuated that the Ncera-based newcomers, who have won their three games to date, were using muti.

“When the Zebras fans saw that we were leading well, they began to hurl insults at us,” said Leopards team manager Siphiwo Fuzile.

“From there, they started assaulting one of our loyal fans, Agcobile Ntoni, and this boy ran to us [technical team] to ask for help.”

He said following the incident, he and a couple of colleagues went to investigate what had happened but were met with hostility.

Fuzile said that was only the beginning of what he thought was the worst match-day ever in his life.

“During the second half, a group of Zebras fans came straight to us while the game was on and they beat us for no reason at all but we managed to contain ourselves and not retaliate.

“The situation was so tense we had to call the police so they could escort us out of that place.

“We decided to submit a letter of complaint with Border Rugby so they can handle this matter as administrators,” said Fuzile.

Border Rugby director Dumisani Mhani confirmed the union had received a letter of complaint from Leopards.

“For now, we still have a one-sided story from Leopards and now we need to communicate with Zebras and get their version of events. When we do sit as the misconduct committee, we can make an informed decision because it’s alleged there was a fight outside the field,” Mhani said.

“This apparent scuffle is said to have affected the game, but we have to have both sides. We’d never tolerate hooliganism.

“Fans need to respect players and afford them the opportunity to play and showcase their talents and not go to games to disrupt them.”

Mhani said it was unfortunate that local rugby fans were starting to emulate what has been happening during PSL matches – where fans invade and vandalise stadium facilities.

“Once we’ve gathered all the information we need to move forward.

“This matter is sub judice, so I don’t want to pre-empt what steps we will take if anyone is found to be in the wrong. This is new to us and it’s not good for the sport,” said Mhani.