Hooligans ‘destoying 2010 legacy’

JOHANNESBURG: Hooliganism within South African football must be eliminated as soon as possible, Safa president Kirsten Nematandani said yesterday.

“Most people go to watch soccer as a source of entertainment with their families, and they need to be protected from these thugs,” Nematandani said.

“Safa condemns this unruly behaviour unconditionally.”

Nematandani’s comments followed unruly behaviour from Mamelodi Sundowns supporters after their 2-0 Premiership defeat to Moroka Swallows at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday.

Supporters tore down barriers and knocked over the dugout in protest, after their team slumped to a fourth defeat in six games.

Overzealous Sundowns supporters had also caused disturbances following the Brazilians’ home defeat to Maritzburg United last week, baying for coach Johan Neeskens’s blood.

“We cannot allow people to take the law into their own hands, because by so doing, they are destroying the 2010 (World Cup) legacy,” said Nematandani.

The Safa president urged clubs and the Premier Soccer League to root out the problem through educating supporters, and harshly punishing perpetrators. “These unpleasant images are viewed across the globe,” he said. “They are denting the image of football in the country, hence we say no to hooliganism.

“We should root out this evil before it becomes a monster.” – Sapa