SIMUNYE – Mbabane Highlanders face possible fines exceeding E100 000 after a supporter scuffle.
The incident unfolded this past Sunday at Simunye Stadium following the club’s 1–0 defeat to Rangers in an MTN Premier League fixture. A source close to the matter confirmed that the confrontation was included in the official match report submitted to the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE).
Tension flared moments after the final whistle when two Highlanders supporters began arguing over the team’s fifth straight winless match. The exchange quickly turned physical, leaving one fan bleeding from the scalp after reportedly being kicked. Police intervened promptly, separating the pair as concerned spectators gathered around.
One supporter was escorted to a police van for questioning, while the injured fan received help from fellow spectators. Both declined to open a case, each blaming the other for provoking the fight and were released shortly afterwards. The club, however, may now face disciplinary repercussions.
Since the scuffle took place inside the stadium, Highlanders could be charged under Regulation 35.3(a) for failing to control their supporters, attracting a fine between E25 000 and E40 000. Additional charges for bringing the game into disrepute could add another E25 000 to E40 000, while the assault-related offence under Regulation 35.3(e) carries a minimum penalty of E40 000.
The club could also be ordered to compensate the injured supporter and may face sanctions of up to 13 matches. These combined penalties place Highlanders at risk of fines well over E100 000, adding pressure to a team already battling poor form. The club sit 10th on the log after eight games and remain winless in their last five outings.
Responding to concerns about the team’s run of results, Highlanders Public Relations Officer (PRO) Khayelihle ‘Karas’ Dlamini said the past five matches had been challenging, but insisted that the club’s character remained intact. He described Highlanders as a team built on strength, tradition and passion,” expressing confidence that they would rebound with renewed energy.
Addressing the supporters’ scuffle, Dlamini said the club value their fans deeply and recognise their passion as the heartbeat of Highlanders. He urged supporters to uphold respect for the game, fellow fans and opponents, adding that disciplined, positive unity makes the club even stronger.
A Mbabane Highlanders supporter receives urgent medical attention after being injured in the violent scuffle that now threatens to cost the club over E80 000 in fines. Face blocked as he is a victim of violence. (Pic: Sanele Jele)