A crucial SAFA Vhembe League Stream E encounter between Ramantsha Blackpool and Daniel Mubva FC at Ravele came to an abrupt end on Sunday after the referee collapsed on the field.
The incident unfolded in front of a large crowd gathered for the top-of-the-table clash. The match had been tightly contested, with Daniel Mubva FC taking an early lead before Ramantsha Blackpool fought back to level and then went ahead. Blackpool were leading 3-2 with 18 minutes remaining when referee Mr Matodzi “Ace” Sadiki collapsed.
Players, officials and spectators watched in shock as he was attended to before being taken to hospital.
After discussions between representatives of both clubs and referee selector Dr Samuel Tshigomana, a proposal was made for the match to continue under the first assistant referee. However, Daniel Mubva FC declined to resume play. Officials remained at the venue until sunset before dispersing.
Ramantsha Blackpool coach Mr Ronald “Maronza” Ramaligela expressed disappointment at the decision not to continue.
“We were leading 3-2 and needed maximum points to strengthen our position at the top of the table. We have only one league match remaining and are still unbeaten. These points are important in our quest to represent Stream E in the promotional play-offs,” said Ramaligela.
He added that he believes the league may award the points to Blackpool, given that they were leading when the match was stopped.
Daniel Mubva FC captain Mpho Khantshi defended the decision, saying the match required a full officiating team.
“We could not continue because this was a do-or-die match for both teams. Our rivals needed the points, and so did we. Rival matches require all match officials to be present,” said Khantshi.
SAFA Vhembe secretary Mr Sam Matodzi said the association is awaiting reports from both teams and match officials before deciding on the outcome. He wished the referee a speedy recovery, adding that it was the first such incident under the association’s administration.