The ABC Motsepe League match between Vondwe XI Bullets and Mpheni Defenders was abandoned once again. The match, which was scheduled for a replay on 26 February at Makonde Stadium, had to be called off when an assistant referee complained of being intimidated.
Both clubs are vying for a top spot on the log and, ultimately, promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship. The initial fixture in December last year was abandoned with only two minutes remaining after the referee awarded a controversial penalty to Bullets. The league's disciplinary committee later ruled that the match should be replayed.
Last Wednesday's encounter was fiercely contested, with clear signs of rivalry from the outset. Defenders took the lead in the 70th minute, but Bullets soon found the equaliser. The referee initially awarded the goal but later reversed his decision after consulting the assistant referee, who had raised his flag. The assistant referee indicated that the Defenders' goalkeeper had been obstructed during the goalmouth scramble.
Bullets supporters did not take kindly to the decision and voiced their dissatisfaction. With 15 minutes left on the clock, the match was abandoned after the assistant referee complained of harassment and said he no longer felt safe.
According to match commissioner Samuel Maduwa, there was no option but to stop the match.
Bullets' managing director, Phatshedzo Siebe, expressed surprise at the referee's decision to disallow the goal.
Defenders' chairperson, Vhutshilo Phuravhathu, said Bullets officials had accused the assistant referee of robbing them. He added that if the match were to be replayed, it should be held at a neutral venue, as Makonde Stadium lacked adequate security.
Safa Limpopo administrator Refilwe Khoza confirmed that representatives from both teams, along with the match officials, will be required to appear before the disciplinary committee.