Kaizer Chiefs Management has lodged a formal complaint to the Premier Soccer League, over a number of appalling incidents that occurred during the PSL match 9, the fixture between Maritzburg United and Kaizer Chiefs, on Sunday, 14 September 2008 at the Chatsworth Stadium.

The visiting team learnt with dismay upon arrival that they were allocated lavatories to use as changing rooms prior to this league match. This was despite the fact that Chatsworth Stadium has ample and appropriate facilities. “When we raised the matter with the team liaison officials, we were amazingly told that keys for the change room were missing. We then brought the matter to the attention of the Match Commissioner,” said the Kaizer Chiefs Football Manager, Bobby Motaung.

“The experience has sparked debate and concerns from the Chairman and Club’s Management, that this was aimed at psychologically destabilizing our team, and appeared to be a deliberate ploy to adversely affect our morale,” he added.

It is not the first time that Kaizer Chiefs has been subjected to such a situation. Similar episodes happened in the past when the team played in KwaZulu-Natal. “We appeal to the PSL, to eliminate such unsportsmanlike behaviour, as it has no room in our football, and brings our league into disrepute,” said Motaung.

Kaizer Chiefs Management was even more disturbed by the official’s decision over what seemed to be a deliberate incident where Tshepo Bulu was brutally assaulted and grievously harmed by Gary Goldstone in the game.. “It was obvious that Goldstone intentionally harmed Tshepo and he was successful in that regard. The situation became worse when the player showed no remorse for such an unnecessary act. The referee’s inadequate and unacceptable decision also drew the attention of the media and soccer-loving fans. It is tantamount to incompetence, recklessness and unprofessionalism,” concluded Motaung.

The PSL is also required to take into consideration comments of the Maritzburg United’s Assistant Coach, Clinton Larson, who seemed to condone Goldstone’s behavior, by marking remarks express the implication of which was that all clubs who visit Maritzburg United can expert to be at the receiving end of similar aggression. ”

We expect the PSL to institute an investigation into to these matters and to take decisive and corrective measures.

Kaizer Chiefs awaits a response from the PSL with respect to our formal complaint.