Fans urged to change after Chiefs, Rollers chaos
Staff Writer | Friday October 26, 2018 12:36
The match kicked-off 30 minutes late as thousands of supporters were still stuck outside by the time the game was supposed to start.
Police had to monitor entry points to avoid a stampede, as some fans reportedly gained free entry.
Some fans did not have tickets, and wanted to buy them at the stadium. “I believe the continuous refusal by supporters to purchase tickets in advance is one factor that created the crowding at the gates. Our fans must learn to buy tickets in advance at outlets,” Ntshinogang said.
He said Chiefs had made an effort to inform supporters where to purchase tickets but “it would appear the message was ignored”.
Ntshinogang said as a result, Chiefs probably underestimated the crowd that was going to turn-up. “I think Chiefs officials underestimated that there could be such a turnout, thus did not put necessary crowd control measurers in place. This should be a lesson to all clubs that preparations for all games must be thorough.”
On the decision to fixture a Category A game at night, Ntshinogang said the decision was influenced by the non-availability of stadiums.
“It would be good to play Category A matches during the day, but where venues are not available, one needs to consider the next best possible solution. Remember, that this game was originally billed for Molepolole but Molepolole presents its own challenges.
“We ended up agreeing that the game be played at the UB Stadium after the Sharps, Forest match, which had already been scheduled. UB Stadium is Sharps’ home ground. We could not use the National Stadium, which is bigger, as it is recuperating from the battering the grass suffered during the Independence Day celebrations,” Ntshinogang said.
Despite the chaotic start to proceedings, the match proved that it is still the most anticipated fixture as the teams dished exciting football and the tie ended 1-1.
Ntshinogang said the turnout was commendable and consistent with a Category A game.