PSL responds to Leopards boss threatening ref

Cape Town - The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has responded to allegations made against Black Leopards chairperson David Thidiela of threatening a match official with violence.

READ: Pitso Mosimane charged with assault

Thidiela, in a leaked audio clip, can be heard threatening referee Victor Hlungwani after Leopards suffered a 1-0 loss to Bloemfontein Celtic at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday.

"The National Soccer League (NSL) has become aware of the alleged utterances which appear to have been made by David Thidiela," a statement read.

"The League distances itself from any comment or utterance such as that which has been reported. Black Leopards is a member of the league, and both the club and Mr Thidiela are bound by the NSL Handbook.

"If the reported utterances are true, this would contravene the League Code of Ethics. Mr Thidiela has been afforded an opportunity to respond to this matter and provide such information as may be relevant."

The PSL confirmed that the matter would be heard before the Executive Committee and Board of Governors at a meeting called for Thursday, September 20.

The Black Leopards boss in the audio can be heard making threats of violence and tribalist utterances against the referee.

"Where I am playing please don't come, I don’t have a problem with anyone, but we can do without you Hlungwani.

"Don't come here (Thohoyandou Stadium), you come here at your own risk, I am giving a last warning, I am tired of you."

SHOCKING!!!

(Exclusive sound)

Black Leopards chairman David Thidiela attacking ref Victor Hlungwani after Leopards’s 1-0 loss to Bloem Celtic at Thohoyandou Stadium yesterday.

LISTEN to this ??. @SAFA_net @OfficialPSL @lidodaduvha pic.twitter.com/z0b6xKSaT5

— FARPost (@FarPostSA) September 17, 2018