MBABANE: THE Eswatini Football Association (EFA) has shattered Manzini Wanderers’ hopes of returning to play. In a meeting with the Premeir League of Eswatini (PLE) yesterday, EFA resolved to appeal High Court judge, Justice Mumcy Dlamini’s order reinstating the Manzini outfit to the League.
Confirming the decision, EFA CEO Petros Vilakati said the EFA resolved “to appeal the ruling and to consult with other stakeholders, especially the general assembly.” The general assembly includes all football structures.
It’s a hard-nosed approach in a high-speed battle that raises fears the league may be plunged into darkness.
High Court judge Mumcy Dlamini’s ruling on Friday night ordered the League to implement her earlier judgement to fixture Manzini Wanderers. The judge added an extra instruction that Moneni Pirates who would otherwise have faced relegation, should retain their position in the league.
The ruling created a 15-team league which soccer insiders believe might irritate the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) which reserves the right of approving the number of teams in the league.
The new EFA decision rudely ends Manzini Wanderers celebrations. Wanderers’ anticipation of being fixtured this weekend were thwarted as the League issued this weekend’s fixture that excluded them.
Still unconfirmed reports suggest that Wanderers are heading back to court to seek a new ruling ringfencing their position in the League.
Jm/today/23.10.2024
