Adebriefing session to discuss incidents that occurred in and around the Danie Craven Stadium at the weekend will be attended by all parties involved today (Thursday 1 September).
This is according to Rob Benadie, CEO of Stellenbosch FC, following chaotic scenes that erupted before and after the MTN8 quarter-final clash between the local club and Kaizer Chiefs at the sporting venue on Sunday (28 August).
The kick-off for the match was scheduled for 15:00, but it was delayed until 15:30 as fans battled to get to the stadium as a result of heavy traffic congestion and who then made their way into the stadium in droves, some apparently illegally forcing their way into the facility.
Videos circulated on social media clearly show some fans climbing over the fence and gate at the entry point in an effort to see their favourite teams in action. Some videos also depict instances of pitch invasion, despite a notable security presence.
Apart from the dramatic scenes at the stadium, residents of Stellenbosch bemoaned the fact that match-goers chose to park illegally on the streets and on private property, allegedly blocking driveways, removing wooden bollards to gain access to restricted areas to park, as well as littering and more. Locals have called for improved traffic and parking control when high-profile matches are scheduled for the Craven.
In a statement issued by Stellenbosch FC on Monday (29 August) Benadie said the event organiser, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), had advertised the match as sold out two hours prior to kick-off. “[The PSL] implemented all the necessary security measures for the 15 000 spectators. The match was, however, unfortunately marred by unruly behaviour by the over-excited supporters, causing damage to perimeter fencing, pitch invasions and delays to the match,” he pointed out.
“Challenges also arose with traffic congestion, which resulted in vehicles parked illegally on private property around the stadium. Thankfully, there have not been any reports of serious harm or injury as of yet.”
Eikestadnuus approached the PSL for comment on the incident, but spokesperson Fhatuwani Mpfuni said it was premature to comment. “Unfortunately I can’t comment at this stage as we are still awaiting and reviewing reports from various stakeholders. I will revert as soon as possible,” he related.
Stuart Grobbelaar, spokesperson for Stellenbosch Municipality, confirmed the municipality had received and approved an event application for the match, and ensured that law enforcement and traffic officials were present on the day.
“Stellenbosch FC has confirmed that the PSL were entrusted with covering all security measures for the clash. The municipality is not the owner of the stadium or in charge of providing private security at the event. Ensuring the safety of fans in attendance is the responsibility of the PSL and the police.”
Kaizer Chiefs spokesperson Vina Maphosa failed to respond to Eikestadnuus’ query on the incident.
Martin Viljoen, media manager at Stellenbosch University, confirmed they are aware of the incidents at the Danie Craven Stadium, but clearly stipulated: “The event was organised by the event owner, the PSL (not Stellenbosch FC), and was approved by the municipality’s events coordinating committee. Both Stellenbosch University and Stellenbosch FC insist on compliance with PSL safety and security arrangements at all football matches.”
He shared that the multi-purpose sporting facility can seat just over 17 000 people, adding that it had been filled to capacity at a number of Varsity Cup rugby games in recent years.
Capt Natalie Martin, spokesperson for Stellenbosch police, confirmed they are aware of the incidents that occurred at the stadium, but said no further comment can be provided until the debriefing meeting is held.
Benadie said today’s debriefing will be attended by all parties, including the PSL, both clubs, Stellenbosch police, Stellenbosch Municipality and service providers. The meeting will focus on discussing “the incidents that occurred inside and outside the stadium before finalising remedial measures to be taken”.
He also apologised on behalf of Stellenbosch FC to “the law-abiding supporters as well as the residents in the surrounding areas who were inconvenienced” as a result of the incidents on Sunday.
Stellenbosch FC’s next home match at the Danie Craven Stadium is against Richards Bay FC this Saturday (3 September), while the DHL Stormers are also scheduled to play two United Rugby Championship matches at this venue in upcoming weeks (see page 12 for the scheduled rugby matches).