Moorosi Tsiane
THE Premier League Management Committee has fined Bantu M20 000 for its supporters’ acts of misconduct during their 1-0 loss to Kick4Life a fortnight ago.
A Matso Matebele supporters assaulted Lesotho Football Association’s (LeFA) Moeketsi Moholobela who was a match official on the day.
PLMC general manager Baitsi Motsamai said in a statement that half of the fine had been suspended until the end of this season.
“Having considered the nature of the allegations, the reports and having heard all parties involved in this matter the PLMC found that Bantu FC through its supporters, committed acts of misconduct as contemplated by the Rule and Regulations, particularly, engaging in acts of violence and assaulting one Mr Moholobela,” reads part of the statement.
“Now therefore, Bantu FC is summarily found guilty of misconduct in contravention of article 50 of the Rules and Regulations and the following order is made.
“Bantu FC is fined M 20 000.00, half of which is suspended for the rest of the season on condition that they (Bantu) are not found guilty of misconduct relating to violence and assault.”
The statement adds: “Bantu FC is also mandated to identify the perpetrators and take penal action against them and submit a report to that effect.
“The next host game of Bantu which is against LMPS (this afternoon) is to be played without spectators, only authorised and licensed officials are to be permitted at the game upon furnishing proper Lesotho Football Association official licenses. All supporters should be at least 100 metres away from the ground.”
For his part, Bantu communications and marketing manager Motlatsi Mofokeng said it was a fair judgement fair and they would comply.
“Considering all the factors leading to the judgement we think it is fair and there is no doubt that as a team we will have to abide by it,” Mofokeng said.
Mofokeng however said they would be negatively affected as they had looked forward to having their supporters in full voice in their first match of the season in Mafeteng.
“It will obviously affect us negatively especially on finances because this is our first match at our ground and our supporters were looking forward to it,” he said.
“So we are going to lose out on that cash while our players need the supporters which unfortunately will not be the case this weekend.
“We were already working on finding the perpetrators and as soon as we have we will act as recommended by the PLMC.”