TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi has explained why he ordered the club’s social media team to remove a controversial graphic aimed at Orlando Pirates, saying the post crossed a line after fans took its message too far.

The image, which was shared ahead of the two clubs’ latest meeting, showed Pirates official Thandi Merafe appearing to chase a TS Galaxy player while holding an envelope. The graphic was interpreted by many as a reference to bribery and past allegations surrounding a heavy defeat involving the two clubs, prompting criticism and debate among supporters.

Speaking on Metro FM’s Sports Nites Amplified, Sukazi said he confronted the club’s social media staff after seeing the post and demanded an explanation for its publication.

“When I saw that, I summoned them and demanded an explanation,” Sukazi said.

According to the Galaxy chairman, the social media team defended the post by referring to the previous 6-0 defeat against Pirates. They explained that the graphic was intended as provocative football banter based on old claims and assumptions surrounding that result, rather than a direct accusation that Pirates had engaged in wrongdoing.

Sukazi recalled the explanation given to him by the team, saying they pointed to the fact that the previous match had generated speculation among supporters and believed revisiting the subject would create excitement ahead of the latest encounter.

However, the chairman was not satisfied with the justification. He believed the imagery went beyond acceptable football banter and could be interpreted as an allegation of serious misconduct.

“I requested that it be removed,” Sukazi explained. “I told them, ‘This is where you went too far.’”

The graphic was subsequently deleted, although the controversy had already gained attention among supporters.

The incident highlights the difficult balance football clubs face when using social media to generate excitement. While humorous exchanges and rivalry-driven content can increase engagement, posts that imply corruption or bribery can quickly become more serious than intended.

The controversy came before Tuesday’s meeting between the sides, with Orlando Pirates eventually securing a 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy. Sukazi’s explanation has nevertheless shed light on the chairman’s approach to the club’s online communications and his willingness to intervene when he believes fan engagement crosses a sensitive boundary.

Source;

https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2111000267399250275