PSL DC rules on Durban City case: Promotion hopes clarified

PSL. Photo credit: SABC Sport

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) Disciplinary Committee (DC) has delivered a verdict in the eligibility case involving Durban City FC, dismissing the protest lodged by JDR Stars regarding midfielder Saziso Magawana.

Motsepe Foundation Championship teams JDR Stars and Cape Town Spurs had alleged that Magawana was improperly registered following his move to Durban City from Marumo Gallants.

They argued that because Leruma United had bought Gallants’ status, Magawana required clearance from Leruma. However, at the time of Magawana's transfer to Durban City, Gallants had already acquired the status from Moroka Swallows.

The case even led to the delay of the league trophy presentation on Sunday, despite Durban City beating Cape Town Spurs 1-0 at Athlone Stadium. Durban City finished at the top of the league table with 58 points from 30 matches, five points clear of second-placed Orbit College FC.

The DC ultimately dismissed JDR Stars’ protest due to a lack of merit, ruling that Durban City’s registration of Magawana was valid and that there was no wrongdoing in him being fielded against JDR Stars. The dismissal also came with costs for JDR Stars.

"The PSL DC dismissed that particular protest with costs to be paid by the protesting club, in this case JDR Stars,” said PSL prosecutor Zola Majavu.

“The PSL DC found nothing wrong with the registration of Mr Magawana by Durban City. And to the extent that he was fielded against JDR Stars, there was no wrongdoing determined by the DC."

This ruling means Durban City, formerly known as Maritzburg United, will be making their return to the Betway Premiership for the upcoming season, while Cape Town Spurs will be relegated to the ABC Motsepe League.

Meanwhile, Orbit College and Casric Stars will participate in the PSL Promotion/Relegation Play-offs, awaiting the team that finishes 15th in the Betway Premiership.

A separate protest from Cape Town Spurs concerning Magawana was initially scheduled for Tuesday evening but was postponed to Wednesday at their request, as they sought to present a witness.