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An Orlando Pirates supporter has publicly criticised Yanela Mbuthuma over an incident involving Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Tashreeq Matthews. The fan believes the Pirates forward should face disciplinary action for what happened.
According to the supporter, the incident took place away from the ball. The fan says it could have left Matthews with a serious injury, and that this is why it has raised concern about how players treat each other on the pitch.
The supporter argued that football should be decided by skill, teamwork and goals, not by actions that put another player's health or career at risk. "I hate this behaviour from players. Why would you want to injure another player? He is human at the end of the day. This is football, not war," the fan said.
The supporter added that players should try to beat their opponents with football, not with dangerous play that could keep someone out of action for months.
Although the fan describes themselves as a loyal Pirates supporter, they admitted the incident has reduced their respect for Mbuthuma. They hope he will apologise to Matthews, given how serious the outcome could have been.
The fan also wants Orlando Pirates to take action. In their view, the club should not overlook such behaviour just because the player wears their colours. The supporter also asked the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to look into the matter and consider a suitable punishment, including a fine, if the circumstances and the rules allow for it.
The supporter pointed out that the incident could have hurt Pirates as well. Mbuthuma could have been sent off, which would have left the team with ten players in an important final. That would have made the match much harder for Pirates, especially in a game where every player counts.
Calling the incident immature, the fan said that being loyal to a club does not mean defending everything its players do. "I know I always support my players, but I cannot support this behaviour. We do not support this at all," the fan said.
The supporter ended by saying that rival players should stay fit and healthy so that wins are earned fairly on the field. "I never wish an injury on our rivals. I want them all fit so I can be proud when I beat them," the fan explained.
The fan's message was simple. Rivalries in football should stay competitive, but respect and player safety must come first.
Source; https://www.facebook.com/100082701413998/posts/1105178702248833/?app=fbl