The abandoned Limpopo promotion playoffs are set to be concluded soon but with only representatives from three SAFA regions, LimSportsZone has learnt. The playoffs were postponed this past weekend after the dispute in the Capricorn Region resulted in the disruption of matches in Nkowa-Nkowa, Tzaneen.

According to a report by SAFA, Mohlabile United caused the abandonment of a match by invading the field of play. They occupied the side that Lebash FC [their Capricorn Region rivals] was to use to start the match. It is further indicated that Mohlabile United players and officials were intimidating and threatening match officials.

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This has resulted in SAFA Limpopo banning Mohlabile and the region as a whole from participating in this year’s Inter-regional playoffs. SAFA Capricorn had the two teams who insisted that they were the rightful Champions of the region. This is despite the SAFA arbitration ruling in favour of Mohlabile.

The province has since taken that decision after a Disciplinary hearing that took place in Nkowa-Nkowa immediately after the incident.

“SAFA Capricorn should not have any other representation to take part in the playoffs underway at Nkowankowa Stadium,” read part of the DC.

“Mohlabile United is found guilty as charged for violating the following rules: 24.2.8; 24.2.18; 24.4.1; 24.4.5 and 24.6. Mohlabile United FC failed to offer any reason to oppose the initiator’s evidence. But instead aggravated the situation that they staged a sit-in in the field of play. Which amounts to acts of misconduct.

“Mohlabile United FC is suspended permanently from participating in the Inter-regional playoffs taking place at Nkowankowa Stadium by invoking rule 23.26.1. Mohlabile United is also liable to pay the costs of the DC.”

LIMPOPO PROMOTION PLAYOFFS DATE SET? 

The playoffs are likely to take place on the weekend of 12/13 August in Nkowa-Nkowa. But there is a new twist into the playoffs.

Sunrise Awaits from the Waterberg region have already played the three matches for the playoffs. This means that unless the playoffs start from scratch, there might not be a need for them to travel to Nkowa-Nkowa.

Mukula from Vhembe, who have already lost two matches, are left with one match. Same as King Born [Sekhukhune] and Continental [Mopani].

By Khotso Ramalatswa