Kaizer coach quits after Cup loss sparks crowd violence

JOHANNESBURG: Kaizer Chiefs confirmed Sunday that coach Steve Komphela had resigned after a South African FA Cup semi-final loss in Durban triggered crowd violence.Club official Bobby Motaung told reporters: “The coach is stepping down with immediate effect. The results are not happening. “Steve has done a great job for Kaizer Chiefs but, unfortunately, if it is not meant to be, it is not meant to be.”

Former South Africa captain and centre-back Komphela failed to win a trophy during three seasons in charge and his contract was due to expire this June.After the shock 2-0 FA Cup defeat by Free State Stars Saturday, some of the crowd ran amok, severely assaulting a female security guard at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the Indian Ocean city.

They also trashed TV cameras, audio equipment and advertising boards and burnt seats before being dispersed by police firing tear gas and stun grenades. A police spokesman said there had been two violence-related arrests and more were expected.

Chiefs were fined 250,000 rand (about $20,500/17,000 euros) this week after supporters flung missiles at Komphela after a heavy league loss in Soweto this month. Founded in 1970, they are the most popular and successful football club in the republic, capable of drawing 90,000 crowds for friendly matches.