A contract in professional sport must be respected because it is a legal document that binds two parties to a deal.

It is an agreement that stipulates terms and conditions for both player and employer.

So it is disturbing that two of the country's glamour clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, became involved in a lengthy legal battle over the services of Siphelele Mthembu, who had signed contracts with both clubs.

The dispute resolution chamber this week ruled in Pirates' favour and Chiefs have since indicated they might appeal.

Without casting any aspersions, Mthembu seems to be the main culprit. He should have known it was illegal to be contracted to both sides.