Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates took to the field in the annual Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday afternoon, despite two people having died at the stadium. Should the game have been played?
The Glamour Boys secured their second trophy of the pre-season when they secured a 1-0 win over their Soweto rivals, but the event has been completely overshadowed after lives were lost at FNB Stadium.
Two fans were tragically killed after a stampede occurred at the stadium, which left 16 others injured and at least one person in critical condition.
The officials were aware of what happened before the players took to the field, but decided that the game should be played regardless. This is what is most alarming…
Surely, the match should have been cancelled after it was confirmed two people had been injured? Does playing the game make the lives of those lost and injured redundant and meaningless? Should the players have been made aware of the incident and got the opportunity to weigh in on whether or not to play?
What is more staggering is the fact that most parties have been numb on the incident. The deafening silence by all the organisers of the Carling Black Label Cup is very sad. Will the PSL even do anything about this?
Of course, many will argue that 60 000-plus fans used their hard-earned money to pay for tickets, and to see a football game, but what if it was their loved ones who were injured or worse…?
The loss of these lives, and the injuries sustained to others, are completely needless and unnecessary. Never should such a thing happen in a competitive game, let alone a pre-season outing!
Should the game have been played on Saturday? Do you think the Carling Black Label Cup should take place next year?
