ACTING Premier Soccer League (PSL) chief executive, Mato Madlala, has come down hard on Absa Premiership and National First Division (NFD) newbies.
Speaking at the launch of 2017 KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Cup, Madlala said AmaZulu and new NFD outfits, Richards Bay FC and Uthongathi FC, should come well prepared for the 2017-18 season in their respective leagues.
Said Madlala: “Last season not a single KZN team was relegated. Instead, KZN teams did exceptionally well. One got promoted to the Premiership and two campaigning in the Premiership finished in respectable positions. Both of them will be playing in the MTN8 tournament next month.
“So these new teams must not come and ruin this good run. They must not embarrass me, I’m a proud KZN local and always speak highly of the recent growth of football in the province.”
AmaZulu will be campaigning in the Premiership next season following the purchase of Thanda Royal Zulu’s status after two seasons in the NFD.
Uthongathi FC and newly formed Richards Bay FC will make their NFD debuts this season.
Madlala said good preparation would be key for these teams’ survival in their leagues.
She said she expected Usuthu to do well: “AmaZulu are seasoned campaigners in the Premiership. As much as our league is growing and getting tougher every season, I expect them to settle in quickly. They are familiar with the league. I wish them all the best.”
Madlala promised an entertaining Absa Premiership season.
She explains: “Our league is growing and people should expect fireworks next season. Gone are the days where our league was predictable and you knew well beforehand who would win and who would be in the top eight.
“It is very competitive now and everyone is bringing their A-game.”
