A Makhado Local Football Association match between Midoroni Real Hearts and Tornado FC was abandoned on Saturday after the referee was allegedly assaulted, following a disputed goal at the Midoroni Grounds.
The match was closely contested from the start, with Real Hearts missing several early chances while Tornado FC controlled the midfield. Tensions escalated after Tornado scored what appeared to be their second goal to take the lead.
Referee Maedza Ndadza said the game could not continue with 27 minutes remaining. In his report, Ndadza said the score was 1-1 when violence erupted after Tornado's second goal, which Real Hearts officials disputed. He said the situation became unsafe and he had no option but to abandon the match.
Tornado coach Scara Masala said his team had gone 2-1 up when officials and supporters of Real Hearts invaded the pitch. He said Tornado's players and officials tried to defuse the situation by urging supporters to leave the field, but their appeals were ignored.
The secretary of the Makhado LFA, Freddy Phathela, said the association was deeply concerned by the incident. "We want players to use soccer as a form of entertainment and create friendships. Real Hearts will be called to appear before a disciplinary committee, and they will be charged for the assault and abandonment of the game," he said.