Shakes shot himself in both feet, hearing told

SOUTH African Football Association (Safa) Development Agency chief executive Dr Robin Petersen has compared the behaviour of Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba after the 2-1 win over Senegal in Polokwane last year to dousing himself in petrol and setting himself alight.

Giving evidence during the arbitration case between Safa and the former Bafana Bafana coach yesterday at the CCMA offices‚ Petersen said Mashaba’s antics were similar to someone shooting himself in both feet.

“He lost control of his demeanour‚ ability to reason and he was a man who was bitterly angry with the association that employs him and the media‚” Petersen said.

“It was a clear indication of ‘I don’t care about Safa and the media’ and he sent out a message that ‘I am not part of you’.

“It was supposed to be a moment to enjoy a glorious victory against a tough team but what happened was that almost everyone read and saw his outbursts.

“From a remuneration point of view‚ the coach is paid way higher than a CEO.

“He is empowered to appoint the people to support him and it is an extremely important position.

“Being a national team coach does not only mean dealing with the players.

“There are multiple stakeholders that you have to deal with, including the NEC and media‚” Petersen said. .

In the morning‚ Safa’s head of referees Peter Sejake said Mashaba behaved unprofessionally and that his relationship with Safa had broken down.

Petersen will continue to be cross questioned by Mashaba’s lawyer, Claudio Bollo this morning. – Mahlatse Mphahlele