Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe Goalkeepers Association (ZGA) has strongly condemned the violent attack on Yadah Stars goalkeeper Godknows Gurure, who was assaulted after his team’s 3-2 defeat to Ngezi Platinum Stars last Friday.
In a statement, ZGA secretary Ndodana Sibanda described the incident as “a barbaric act, which should not go unpunished,” adding that violence against players has no place in football.
Reports indicate that Gurure suffered head injuries and required hospital treatment after being attacked by a club sponsor, apparently in frustration after Yadah squandered a two-goal lead to lose the match.
“The Zimbabwe Goalkeepers Association is outraged and deeply disturbed by the unprovoked and barbaric assault of up-and-coming goalkeeper Godknows Gurure by a so-called ‘sponsor’ following a league match where the team conceded three goals,” read the statement.
“The incident resulted in Gurure suffering head injuries that necessitated hospital treatment.
“The Zimbabwe Goalkeepers Association strongly condemns this unacceptable act of violence against a player in what should be safe spaces, the playing field and change rooms.
“Football is a team sport and it is fundamentally wrong to punish or physically assault players for the outcome of a match. Such behaviour undermines the principles of sportsmanship, safety, and teamwork that football embodies.”
The ZGA urged the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to act decisively.
“We urge the Premier Soccer League to take strong and decisive action against the perpetrator of this assault. Such wayward behaviour should not be tolerated in or around our stadia. Incidents like this challenge the notion of football being the ‘beautiful game’ as coined by Pelé.
Safety and respect for all participants must be paramount.
“The Zimbabwe Goalkeepers Association stands in solidarity with the Yadah FC goalkeeper, Godknows Gurure, and his family during this time and calls for full support for the goalkeeper’s recovery and well-being.
“The association also emphasises the need for all stakeholders in football to ensure a safe and respectful environment for players, officials and all involved in the sport.”
The PSL confirmed on Sunday that investigations have begun. Yadah, meanwhile, issued its own statement distancing the club from the official involved, stressing that he did not act on behalf of the team. — @brandon_malvin
