Another Byo ref in road accident

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
ANOTHER Bulawayo-based Zifa referee Saidi Phiri survived death by a whisker last Thursday on his way to officiate at a schools tournament when the car he was travelling in was rammed by another vehicle.

Phiri, a Class One referee, sustained bruises on his body and swollen lips and is recuperating at home.

According to Phiri, their car was hit by another vehicle that failed to stop at a traffic controlled intersection just behind the old Ascot Race Course.

“The other car failed to stop at a red robot and rammed into us. It was a scary moment and I am lucky that I survived. I am recuperating at home and feeling a bit better now,” said Phiri.

The referee, a promising official whose interpretation of the rules of the game is impressive, was on his way to officiate in a schools match involving Christian Brothers College and St Columbus.

The incident comes barely a week after five Bulawayo referees were involved in a road traffic accident on their way from Mandava Stadium in Zvishavane where they officiated in a league match involving FC Platinum and Dynamos.

Pilan Ncube, Brighton Nyika, Oscar Bumhe, Martin Chiwandire and Sabelo Maphosa also cheated death when their car hit a stray cow 20km before the Filabusi turn-off.

They were treated and discharged at Filabusi Hospital, but their car was a write off.

@skhumoyo2000