The love for soccer of the 43 people killed in a stampede at Ellis Park Stadium five years ago would always be remembered, Orlando Pirates chairperson Irvin Khoza told their families on Tuesday.
They had given true meaning to the word support, added Kaizer Chiefs head Kaizer Motaung.
Sadness was etched on the faces of hundreds of people gathered at the stadium as the names of the 43 people killed were read out by Mphuthumi ”Putco” Mafani, former Chiefs public relations officer.
Another 85 people were injured on April 11 2001 in a stampede to get into the stadium at the start of a derby between the two sides.
Bosses, players and supporters of the soccer teams listened as the strains of a Soweto gospel choir rendition of the hymn Amazing Grace filled the stadium.
No-one wanted to remember the day, because no-one had anticipated the tragedy it would hold, said Motaung.
”This gathering is a gesture to show the families that they are not alone. Their loss is our loss.”
Said Khoza: ”I know the pain of death in a family because my daughter Zodwa died only a few months ago. But I know it will pass.”
His thoughts were with the victims’ families. Nothing could be said or done to remove their pain. Only God would wipe it away, he told them
Khoza’s 30-year-old daughter, who was the football club’s brand manager, died in February of Aids-related complications on her return from the African Cup of Nations in Egypt. She had been married to former Bafana Bafana vice-captain Sizwe Motaung.
The families of those killed in the stampede were expected to lead the teams and supporters later in the laying of wreaths on the field. — Sapa