Violence has no place in soccer or any sporting code

 AT last, the National Soccer League (NSL) season has begun. 

Fans of this family sport are happy to watch some of the top players from the Pacific in action together with the local boys. 

Unfortunately, not many appreciate the fact that  this  is  only a game as hooligans have popped their ugly heads up. 

What happened in Lae two weeks ago and again at the PNG Institute of Public Administration Oval after the Hekari and Lae game must be condemned in the strongest terms. 

All  stakeholders, including  supporters, fans and the team management, must respect the huge burden sponsors carry by using their time and financial resources to keep this sport going and progressing well in the country. 

Supporters must  always  keep in mind that it is  only  a game and not something personal to fight over. 

The running of a professional league comes at a huge cost to a few hardworking people, who put in their hearts and make a lot of sacrifices for the game. 

It is time to change the mindset of supporters in all sporting codes in PNG. 

We are going to host the Pacific Games next year and we must show true sportsmanship to our visiting friends. 

To the supporters of other teams, including Lae Football Club who are hell-bent on hating other teams  and  interrupting football matches, think hard and consider the fact that it takes years for good teams to be made and success does not happen overnight as many believe. 

To  be in the NSL is not a right, but a privilege.  The worst is to have your team penalised or suspended  and  no  genuine  supporter  would want the season disrupted in any way due to bad behaviour from the team or their fans. 

Violence has no place in any modern sport. 

So, everyone’s mindset must change for the good of the game. 

Otherwise, we will not develop for the better and will always play second fiddle to our Pacific Island neighbours. 

Keep personal shouting matches and violence at home, and come to the field with good intentions to watch and enjoy great football matches involving your teams and go home satisfied. 

SS soccer fan 

Port Moresby