In a dramatic move, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Referees Committee has officially declared a boycott of all matches involving the army side Black Rhinos Football Club.
The boycott comes after Black Rhinos’ technical team, players, fans and other officials reportedly assaulted a referee in their match against CC Lee Mhangura on the 16th of June at Mhangura Stadium.
This was confirmed in a statement by ZIFA secretary general Yvonne Mapika Manwa on Wednesday announcing the committee’s ‘shocking’ decision.
“We (ZIFA) hereby inform you that the Referees Committee has decided to withdraw their services for all matches involving Black Rhinos Football Club.
“This decision applies to both home and away matches,” Manwa wrote.
Manwa went on to detail the reason behind the boycott.
“The reason behind this action is the unfortunate incident that occurred during a match between CC Lee Mhangura and Black Rhinos on June 16, 2024, at Mhangura Stadium. Referee Pride Benhura was attacked by members of the Black Rhinos technical team during the course of the game.
“To ensure the safety of match officials, we insist that concrete steps be taken before, during, and after football matches involving the Black Rhinos club. Until such measures are implemented, the withdrawal of referee services will remain in effect.
“We urge all clubs to prioritize safety and create a secure environment for matches. This incident is not the first of its kind, and it is essential that preventive measures are put in place.”
Despite the decision, Black Rhinos are yet to issue their statement regarding the matter, whether they will appeal or they will ‘pull out’ of the league.
As it stands, the decision throws their upcoming fixtures into uncertainty.
Masoja enyu asina discipline ma1
Rubbish people vajaira corruption ndosaka vachirohwa
Why?
Are you sure kikkkikkik
Vanenge vakadya mukonde vakomana kkkkk
Kombai ma referees acho tirove. Kana kuvaendesa ku army course ye drill kusvika vati taakuda kuridza pito
Playing with army team Commando bullets, the leadership would address their players like, l quote, angopiwa yellow card kana kunetsana na referee, eeeeh, anopedzwa naye. For sure, they could outplay their opponents due to their physicality. I am here just saying, the referees committee must just engage the authorities at the army side to reign in those unruly elements.
Lovemore Mushangwe ngavape report kufifa zvibhanwe ka1 kkkkkkkk
Lovemore Mushangwe The decision they have taken is good its actually eliminating rhe armyside from the ship
But their bus mmmmh
This soldier team threat refrees bad like they a treating civilians……let’s soccer be soccer