Whilst it could have been ideal to remember the evening by the brilliant ray from both teams, we are yet saddened by what turned out into the most tragic match in the early years of the 21st century in our soccer fraternity.

Termed the Ellis Park Disaster, many of us carry vivid memories of lifeless bodies that were spread on the Northern touchline of this majestic stadium whose only sin was to be seemingly small to host thousands of cheering supporters on that evening. The wailing of parents and relatives, punctuated the familiar sounds of vuvuzelas and ululations that characterises the epic clash between two giants of South African football.

Without opening wounds of those that suffered the impact of this tragedy, let me express once more, our heartfelt condolences by begging that we allow time to heal us from such an experience. It can only be fair to prayerfully strengthen the hearts of the families whose beloved ones were claimed by the tragedy of that fateful evening.

Tomorrow, April 11 2007, players, supporters and management of both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs will host an hour-long prayer session to commemorate the Ellispark Disaster. The solemn event would be staged to send a message of healing to the families and relatives of those who felt the brunt of such a loss.

Players will lay flowers and later join in a short prayer to demonstrate their love and support. Both the Amakhosi and the Buccanners’s male choirs will be present to sooth our hearts with their warm hymns.

Details are as follows:-

Date : 11 April 2007


Time : 11:00 am


Venue : J.Z Le Roux Hall, Ellispark Stadium, JHB