The Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) has reached mid-season giving clubs the much-needed break after 15 tough games — some which have been financially draining. The second half begins on August 4 with the 16-team knockout Mbada Diamonds Cup.
But the major worry is the silence from both the PSL and BancABC on the status of the Super Eight competition. From the information we have gathered, the competition was due to begin last week, but nothing happened.
According to the PSL calendar, the quarter-final matches were due on the weekend of July 14-15 while the final had been slated for September 6.
And then we had a story running in the media last week that the competition had been moved to Tanzania. The best that both organisations can do is just to tell the nation the truth.
But then, we find solace in that the cash-rich Mbada Diamonds Cup is definitely on and an event to officially launch the richest domestic tourney will be held in due course.
This competition is highly rewarding, especially to the players, who get their appearance fees paid right at the match venue. And we hope that it comes with some increment this year!
Though the break is only two weeks, players need to recharge their batteries because there is no other solution to beating fatigue other than rest.
Clubs want to beef up their squads and sign the best talent on offer in the land to increase their title chances, but with just eight days to go before the transfer window closes, no big deals have been concluded.
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The break will enable Dynamos to catch up on their outstanding matches against Highlanders, which they fulfilled on Sunday, next weekend’s match against Caps United, and FC Platinum on August 4.
It’s tough luck though to Dynamos players as there is no such joy in taking a break. By the time Dynamos play Platinum, the Zvishavane side will have had a three-week break.
And they have managed to keep their players focused by playing a friendly match against Chicken Inn. Highlanders will also have two weeks, while Caps have already enjoyed their two weeks.
It is pleasing to note that there have been few, though notable, incidents of indiscipline so far and the league has moved swiftly to deal with hooliganism in the game.
Caps United have been fined, Dynamos have been ordered to replay their match against Hwange while Highlanders, no doubt, will meet the same fate as Caps for violence at one of their matches at Barbourfields.
One would, on the other hand, feel pity for teams like Highlanders and Shabanie Mine who have to pay their players every week for wins and draws despite their financial struggles.
For clubs like Quelaton, Hardbody, WSS Rangers and Gunners, funding has been problematic. With players going unpaid, mass exodus looms including the sale of players to other clubs.
We hope that the spirit of fair play, shown so far by the players and fans, will continue as we head into the second half.
