The football fraternity was left disappointed over reports that there will be no Mascom Top 8 this year. The company, Mascom Wireless, has reportedly released a statement announcing the news this past weekend, much to the disappointment of local football fans.
However, Ramochotlhwane said the BFL has not received any information regarding the reports from the company. He stated that what he is aware of is that they have been waiting to engage with the knockout competition sponsors.
The two parties reportedly agreed to continue working together in February this year. The competition, which is played by the top eight sides in the Premier League last took place in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic forced the authorities to suspended all sporting activities. Orapa United are the reigning champions. Mascom, through a press statement, has cited financial constraints as part of the reasons for its decision. “After thorough evaluations and deliberations, Mascom regrets to inform all stakeholders that we will not be hosting this year’s Mascom Top 8.
This is an outcome of the challenges to our business fundamentals, due in large part to the current socio-economic climate, which has resulted in financial constraints and not allowed us to commit the resources necessary for the successful delivery of the Mascom Top 8,” the company said in a statement. The company has been sponsoring the knockout competition since 2012. Meanwhile, two Premier League players, Koketso Majafi and Michael Pepukani as well as goalkeeper coach, Kagiso Tshelametsi’s suspensions have been lifted.
The trio was suspended in May pending disciplinary hearing for violent conduct. The reason for the lifting of the suspensions is reportedly due to the delay in dealing with the matter. Majafi and Pepukani were involved in an on-field scuffle when their sides Masitaoka and Morupule Wanderers played three months ago. Both were given marching orders for their behaviour and that resulted in both players taking on each other in the tunnel to the dressing rooms.
