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Eddie Chikamhi Senior Sports Reporter
GIANTS Dynamos and Highlanders yesterday met the Premier Soccer League and resolved to end the ugly row that had cast a shadow on their scheduled clash in the opening round of the 2024 Premiership season.
The country’s two biggest teams were last week incensed by comments made by the league’s chairperson Farai Jere.
Jere had insinuated the two most followed clubs had violent tendencies and hence the match was deliberately fixed on Week One when temperatures were still low.
The comments did not go down well with the two clubs, who later vented their anger in a joint statement in which they condemned “the inflammatory remarks”.
They also described the statement as “reckless” and “deeply concerning”, with “the potential to damage the reputation and integrity of our esteemed clubs, as well as undermine the spirit of fair play in Zimbabwean football.”
But there was a positive new chapter to the saga yesterday after the parties were brought together in a meeting presided by the chairman of the PSL Technical and Development Committee, Masimba Chihowa, who is also the chairperson of Manica Diamonds.
The meeting was attended by PSL chairman Jere, Dynamos chairman Moses Maunganidze and Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe and the parties “had a frank engagement over the recent statements issued by the PSL Chairman,” the PSL said in a statement.
“There was a consensus on the way forward as the parties resolved to work hand in hand to create an atmosphere of sportsmanship and camaraderie during the upcoming big match between Highlanders FC and Dynamos FC next week.
“The meeting chaired by the Chairman of the PSL Technical and Development Committee, Mr Masimba Chihowa was characterised by open and constructive dialogue.”
The PSL and the traditional league giants are now focused on the upcoming blockbuster match to be held at Barbourfields.
The 2024 PSL league programme is set to begin next Saturday, with the big match coming the next day.
Violence has marred previous fixtures between the giants and the authorities are looking forward to an incident-free match next Sunday.
“The upcoming big match is anticipated to be a showcase of the new-found collaboration, as the leaders call on fans from all sides to come together in large numbers and witness the passion and skill on display.
“Their shared goal is to turn this match into a model for peaceful coexistence and sportsmanship, setting a positive precedent of zero tolerance to violence for all future PSL matches.
“They have expressed their commitment to providing a secure and enjoyable experience for fans where rivalries can be expressed with passion but always within the bounds of respect.
“Fans can look forward to a season filled with exciting matches, a vibrant atmosphere and a renewed sense of community, reinforcing the belief that football has the power to bring people together in celebration of the beautiful game,” the PSL statement continued.
Online Reporter