PSL lays charges against fans

Johannesburg - The Premier Soccer League (PSL) laid criminal charges at the Dobsonville police station in Soweto on Wednesday against some Mamelodi Sundowns FC supporters.

Five charges were laid, including malicious damage to property, entering a designated area illegally and throwing dangerous objects.

A section of disgruntled Sundowns supporters at the Premiership clash with hosts Moroka Swallows on Sunday damaged property at the Dobsonville Stadium and invaded the pitch after the final whistle. Sundowns lost the match 2-0.

Police from the nearby Dobsonville police station had to be called in to restore order at the ground.

Sundowns' supporters also threw vuvuzelas at coach Johan Neeskens, who they want fired because of a lack of wins and a poor run of results in their league and cup campaigns.

PSL media manager Luxolo September said the national soccer body needed to send a message to supporters that unruly behaviour would not be tolerated.

"Today [Wednesday], the PSL together with stadium management went to Dobsonville to lay criminal charges against some individuals," September said.

"Five charges have been laid, including malicious damage to property.

"The good thing is that we have handed the police the evidence, including video and still images.

"We have also handed the names of some of the individuals to the police."

This is the first time in its history that the PSL has laid charges against individuals.

Mamelodi Sundowns confirmed on their website on Tuesday that the club's management had acted swiftly to identify those involved in the violence and the pitch invasion.

The club said their names would be handed to the SA Police Service for investigation and prosecution.

This was the second time this season that Sundowns fans resorted to violence after losing a match.

Three weeks ago, they tried to break through a barrier next to the players' tunnel at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, after the team's 2-1 loss to Maritzburg United.