Bottom of the Premier Soccer League (PSL) log and booted out of the Telkom Knockout competition in the first round, Orlando Pirates’ woes continued when they were handed an effective R200 000 fine.
”Pirates were fined R150 000 on charges of crowd misbehaviour and bringing the league into disrepute following incidents during and after their recent 2-1 defeat against Golden Arrows in Durban,” announced PSL general manager Andrew Dipela on Tuesday.
”They have been ordered to pay R50 000 of the fine, with the balance of R100 000 suspended for 12 months.”
But Dipela revealed that a suspended fine of R150 000 hanging over the Buccaneers’ heads from last season would now be activated — resulting in fines amounting to R200 000 to be handed over to the league with immediate effect.
And, to rub salt into the wounds, Pirates will also be required to pay the costs of the two disciplinary committee hearings relating to the fracas that was principally directed at former coach Bibey Mutombo — who resigned soon afterwards claiming his health was in jeopardy as a result of the threatening attitude of supporters.
The PSL also announced on Tuesday the following dates and venues of the Telkom Knockout quarterfinals:
Thursday October 25: AmaZulu vs Bloemfontein Celtic at Chatsworth Stadium, Durban (7.30pm).
Friday October 26: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Benoni Premier United at Loftus Stadium, Pretoria (8pm).
Saturday October 27: Free State Stars vs Jomo Cosmos at Goble Park, Bethlehem (3pm).
Sunday October 28: SuperSport United vs Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Stadium (3.30pm). — Sapa