Moroka Swallows defender Vusi Sibiya says there is nothing as players they can do to change the situation of non-payment at the club and what is required of them is “to be strong”.
Swallows’ players have not been paid salaries since November, and it led to them allegedly boycotting two matches in December – against Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows, respectively.
The club’s last game was against SuperSport United on the 15 December, but even ahead of this one the players took a 10-day stay away from training, however they were urged by coach Steve Komphela to show up.
As Swallows didn’t show up against Sundowns and Arrows, respectively, the PSL forfeited those six points and awarded them to both opponents, warning Swallows of expulsion for bringing the league, fans, sponsors, and broadcasters to disrepute.
The expulsion was set aside because Swallows pleaded guilty to the league, which was confirmed by club chairman David Mogashoa.
However, PSL prosecutor Zola Majavu confirmed the club received an effective R400 000 fine, having had an R1-million sanction imposed on them, but R600 000 was suspended for two years.
“As players, we must be strong because this is our job, our daily bread and we must focus on that,” said Sibiya.
Over and above that, Sibiya said, as much as it is not ideal to be in the position they are in, the show must go on.
“We must be motivated because we want to be in the top four,” said Sibiya, who joined the club from Stellenbosch FC during the off-season.
“We have goals to achieve, so we want to be in the top four. We must be motivated and try to bounce back.”
Coach Steve Komphela, just like Sibiya, arrived at the beginning of the season in what was a surprising move as he was comfortable at the winning machine of Mamelodi Sundowns as one of the coaches.
Komphela, in the face of all of this, has put on a brave face about Swallows’ mired financial situation. Sibiya said working under the former Golden Arrows coach has been a breath of fresh air.
“I’ve learned a lot from coach Steve because he is always motivating us, not only a good coach but a father to us,” said Sibiya.
“He has been in the game for too long and we are constantly learning from him.”
Swallows are currently positioned 11th in the DStv Premiership table with 19 points after 14 matches.
The club’s next game post the Africa Cup of Nations will be against Cape Town City on 14 February at DHL Stadium. It will be interesting to see whether they would have cleared everything within the camp once that game arrives.