Pirates fined by PSL

Orlando Pirates have been fined by the Premier Soccer League’s Disciplinary Committee (DC) after fans threw objects at match officials during their 3-2 defeat to Magesi FC.

The unexpected loss saw the Buccaneers eliminated from the Carling Knockout Cup in the Round of 16, with Magesi taking a 3-0 lead at half-time.

Pirates mounted a late comeback, scoring two goals, although a third was disallowed for offside.

A controversial penalty incident sparked outrage among players and fans, which led to the spectators’ reactions resulting in the fine by the PSL DC.

“I can confirm that earlier this morning, Orlando Pirates Football Club appeared before the PSL DC to answer to charges of spectator misbehaviour arising from a missile-throw incident wherein the spectators threw an assortment of missiles directed at the match officials in their match against Magesi FC,” said PSL prosecutor Zola Majavu.

“Orlando Pirates FC pleaded guilty as charged and they were subsequently convicted accordingly. Having listened to the submission regarding aggravation and mitigation of sanction and mindful of the fact that they pleaded guilty and as first offenders, the PSL ruled as follows:

“They were fined a monetary amount of R100,000, of which half is suspended for 12 months, on the condition that during the suspension period, they are not found guilty of the same offence. If they re-offend, the suspended portion will be activated, along with an additional sanction for the new offence.

“They were further ordered to bear the costs of the DC proceedings, which are typically administratively calculated and added to the R50,000 fine, which is effective immediately.”

Also read: