Zimpapers Logo

Eddie Chikamhi Harare Bureau
HARARE giants Dynamos have cried foul over Zifa’s decision to call for a replay of the Independence Cup final against FC Platinum which was abandoned because of power failure at the National Sports Stadium last Saturday.

Zifa yesterday ruled that the match be played again on Wednesday, May 13, at Rufaro and fans will have to pay their way into stadium so that the organisers will be able to raise money to meet the expenses of hosting the match.

The Uhuru Cup is usually free of charge as it is part of the programme to celebrate the country’s independence.

Dynamos were leading 1-0 courtesy of Ronald Chitiyo’s first half strike when referee Pedzisai Chadya called off the contest with 65 minutes played.

According to a statement from the association’s spokesperson Xolisani Gwesela, Dynamos’ goal will be nullified and the teams are expected to play the whole 90 minutes. “Following extensive consultation among all concerned parties, the Zimbabwe Football Association has committed to order a replay for the ill-fated 2015 Independence Cup final between FC Platinum and Dynamos.

“We’ve taken into cognisance that the abandonment of the match was a result of force majeure (unforeseen events) therefore none of the participating teams was at fault.

“This is a new game altogether and it’ll be played for a full 90 minutes. Consequently, the 1-0 position in favour of Dynamos obtained prior to the premature end of the match, is hereby nullified.

“In coming up with this position, we’ve analysed various possible scenarios within the dictates of the laws of the game as well as the tournament rules and regulations.

“It’s also imperative to note that we also looked at costs hence we found it necessary to charge for entry to this game. We also appeal to the football fraternity and the nation at large to proffer the same support they had given on April 18 by coming in large numbers to witness the exhilarating encounter,” said Gwesela.

Supporters will have to fork out $2 for the rest of the ground seats, $10 for the Upper Grand Stand and $10 for the VIP ticket.

However, Dynamos chairman Mubaiwa yesterday said the decision to order a replay was fraught with discrepancies. The DeMbare boss said the Glamour Boys were unhappy with the decision to have their goal cancelled and to play the whole 90 minutes since they did not cause the abandonment of the match.