“The (11) eleventh day of April 2001 remains embedded in our hearts and minds as the darkest in our history of football. The Ellis Park tragedy still reminds us of how short life is after a stampede that claimed supporters that had turned in numbers to witness the always drama-filled clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

“Losing that many a life was surely not part of the agenda but as it turned out, we have learnt to depend on God’s time to heal from the experience. After years of wondering how such could have impacted on us so hard, we are still at a loss for words to internalize how such pain could occur in an event that was intended to bring joy and excitement to those that religiously support the two teams.

“The tradition still persists and only the naïve have continuously downplayed the nature and character of our local derby by suggesting that it has lost its sting. The truth is, the Ellis Park disaster enforces the derby’s significance on our football and with the situation in the current season drawing to an obvious photo-finish, we might as well prepare thoroughly like we did with all others that followed.

“May I therefore invite all South African citizens at the time when we seek our spiritual pilgrimage through the festivities of the Easter weekend, to prayerfully thank and ask GOD to spread His grace over the families that have lived to know the full impact of such a tragic loss. I also believe that the families have gathered their sorrows and moved on to heal.”