Bulawayo City Council orders Dynamos and PSL to pay for Barbourfields damage

TAKUDZWA HILLARY CHIWANZA

BULAWAYO—The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has said that the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and Dynamos, as the host team, are responsible for effecting repair works at Barbourfields Stadium in the wake of violent scenes that erupted during a PSL match between Dynamos and Highlanders FC that was played on the 10th of September, 2023.

The explosive encounter was abandoned in the 38th minute after Highlanders fans began throwing missiles and invading the pitch to rail against what they perceived as unfair decisions by the referee. With scenes of confusion reigning supreme, police had to exercise restraint to avoid the situation deteriorating into total chaos.

Dynamos have been made to pay the damages for the repair because they were the host team on the day. BCC pegged the costs of repairs to the damages caused at US$4 121.

BCC said in its latest council report:

“On Sunday 10 September 2023, Barbourfields Stadium hosted a match pitting Highlanders Football Club and Dynamos Football Club.

“However, the match was aborted just less than 40 minutes of play due to crowd trouble.

“This resulted in the vandalism of the facility notably the exit gates, perimeter fence, pitch drainage, fourth match official’s bench and corner flags were stolen.

“The quoted cost of repair of damages was US$4 121.

“The Premier Soccer League and Dynamos, as the host club, had since been advised to effect the repair works as per policy.”

Last month, Dynamos were fined US$3 500 by the PSL, of which US$500 was suspended for a season on condition the club refrains from committing similar offences.