Yadah Stars FC has requested the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to relocate their tie against Highlanders, originally scheduled for Barbourfields, to Bata stadium in Gweru.
By Bhora Afrika
Their request follows the chaos that occurred at Barbourfields Stadium on 10 September when fierce rivals Dynamos and Highlanders clashed.
The much-anticipated match pitting the country’s most supported clubs was called off in the 39th minute after Bosso supporters invaded the pitch protesting against the referee’s decisions.
Eight individuals including four police officers were injured due to the disturbances, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed on Monday.
This has prompted the Miracle Boys leadership to seek for a change of venue when they play Bosso on 17 September.
In a letter addressed to PSL, Yadah cited safety concerns as the primary reason for their request.
Yadah is convinced that moving their forthcoming match against Bosso is necessary for their fan’s “safety and wellbeing”.
“From the onset, we hasten to point out that our request is informed and guided by the unfortunate events that unfolded at Barbourfields Stadium when Dynamos “hosted” Highlanders on September 10, 2023, for the teams’ match day 22 for the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixture, which concern our client,” reads the letter.
“As far as we are aware, the referee did not award a penalty to Highlanders sometime around the 38th minute, which some felt they were entitled to, failure in which prompted an extremely violent reaction from a clique of the Highlanders fans, leading to acts of violence against members of the police force who were primarily present solely to maintain order during the match.
“In light of these circumstances, our client, Yadah FC, is of the firm view that the safety and well-being of its fans, players, and officials, as well as other stakeholders, which is of paramount importance, have since been compromised in the wake of its impending fixture against Highlanders.”
In case the match cannot be moved to Gweru, the prophet Walter Magaya owned side has requested that the fixture be played in an empty stadium.