Posted in News on Apr 11, 2014.
The Ellis Park Disaster is one memorable day that the people let alone the football fraternity will never forget. These are the words of Kaizer Chiefs Football Manager Bobby Motaung, referring to the tragic death of the 43 people in what today is known as the Ellis Park Disaster.
"I remember the day very well. The memory of the events remain fresh in the minds of South Africans and not only the Kaizer Chiefs family. We always remember the people who lost their lives for the love of football. In the process of mourning the loss of lives, we become stronger as we are reminded of the huge responsibility we carry on our shoulders to ensure the safety of the people at the games, " said Bobby Motaung who witnessed the events that night.
"Today we share in prayers for the 43 football loving souls who passed on, on this day in 2001. God Bless their families," read Kaizer Motaung (Jnr) twitter message.
Morning Makhosi! Today we share in prayers for the 43 football loving souls who passed on,on this day in 2001.God Bless their families! K4l?
— kaizer motaung jnr (@kaizerm_jnr) April 11, 2014
"I would like to pay my respects to the families that lost their loved ones on this day," read Itumeleng Khune twitter message.
"On behalf of the Team, we wish and pray that the affected families will find solace in the Almighty God. As footballers we will never forget that tragic moment in football history. May the spirits of the lost live long and their souls rest in peace," said Captain Khune.
Siphiwe Tshabalala told kaizerchiefs.com, "I still remember that tragic day. Our thoughts goes out to the affected families. The fans were there to support football and the Derby match. As the players we will always remember that day. May the souls of the 43 people who lost their lives rest in peace."
Assistant Coach Doctor Khumalo was there, "that's one moment in the history of the Club that we won't forget. It was an unfortunate situation and it will remain stigma that will forever be with us. It was tragic to witness the scenes. "We will never replace the lost lives but can console and send messages of support to the affected families. It is not easy but with God Grace we trust that the families remain strong."
