Mbabane Swallows, a Premier League club in Eswatini, is facing potential disciplinary action after a tumultuous match against Ubombo Sugar on Saturday. The game ended in a 1-0 defeat for Swallows, with the winning goal scored from a penalty in stoppage time. The match officials' reports, submitted to the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE), have implicated Swallows in the incidents that followed the final whistle.
According to eyewitness accounts, a Swallows official allegedly assaulted assistant referee Mlondi Sihlongonyane in the face during the disorder, leaving him bleeding. The incident occurred along the touchline, and police officers had to regroup to protect the match officials. The alleged assault was reportedly committed by an official from Swallows, who came from the opposite side of the field.
In addition to the alleged assault, Swallows supporters entered the field of play and attempted to move towards the match officials. Police officers and some Swallows officials formed a barrier to prevent the supporters from reaching the officials. The PLE regulations make match officials' reports central to the disciplinary process, which may lead to charges against Swallows.
Under PLE Article 35.3(e), assaulting a referee or official carries a fine of not less than E40,000 for a Premier League club. The provision also allows for compensation for financial losses incurred by the victim and provides for the suspension of the offender. The alleged pitch invasion could constitute a separate offence, carrying a E25,000 fine for a Premier Division club.
If charged and found guilty of both the alleged assault and pitch invasion, Swallows could face a minimum fine of E65,000. The figure could rise if additional charges are brought and upheld. The PLE rules also address a club's responsibility for maintaining order and protecting match officials from violence, intimidation, and abuse.
The disciplinary committee has powers to impose one or a combination of sanctions, including monetary fines, where misconduct has been established. For a member club, the maximum monetary fine under the general disciplinary provision is E100,000. Any final punishment will depend on the charges brought by the PLE, the evidence presented, and the committee's findings.
Swallows have not been found guilty of any offence at this stage, and the allegations concerning the official and supporters remain subject to the disciplinary process. The club's officials and supporters will have to wait for the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings to determine the extent of their punishment.
Key points
- Mbabane Swallows may face a fine of E65,000 or more for the alleged assault of a referee and pitch invasion during their MTN Premier League opener.
