Nedbank, the main sponsors of the Nedbank Cup, have issued a statement following the violent scenes after the semi-final between Kaizer Chiefs and Free State Stars.

The Chiefs fans resorted to hooliganism at the full-time whistle in response to the 2-0 defeat. The supporters invaded the pitch at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, assaulted security guards, destroyed broadcast equipment, set parts of the stadium alight while they also pelted players and officials with missiles.

After the game Steve Komphela resigned as the coach of the Soweto Giants. Komphela had been subjected to hostile abuse from the Amakhosi faithful which included another violent incident after a 3-0 loss at the hands of Chippa United earlier this month.

The PSL has subsequently charged hosting team Chiefs with bringing the league into disrepute, with a hearing set for 3 May at 6pm.

Nedbank have since released a statement on the incident, saying: ‘Like many South Africans, we at Nedbank are deeply disturbed by the unruly behaviour of certain groups of spectators that attacked security guards and destroyed broadcasting equipment at the semi-final match on Saturday, 21 April between Kaizer Chiefs and Free State Stars at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.’

‘We are encouraged by the swift response of the South African Police Service who have already confirmed the arrests of two people in connection with these unlawful acts.’

‘As proud sponsors of the Nedbank Cup since 2008, we’ve used the platform to position Nedbank as the bank for all South Africans and to use our financial expertise to do good for individuals, families, businesses and society. As a result, the Nedbank brand cannot be associated with the acts of violence that was on display for all to see at a Nedbank Cup game, we are confident though that the Premier Soccer League working with safety and security stakeholders will take the necessary steps to eradicate any form of hooliganism from the beautiful game of football.’

Photo:  Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix