Sparks are expected to fly when Mpheni Defenders take part in the national promotional play-offs in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. The tournament will determine which teams gain promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Defenders qualified for the national play-offs after being crowned Limpopo champions two weeks ago, following their 1-0 victory over Ngwabe City Motors in the final. Defenders will participate in the national play-offs for the third time and are regarded as one of the favourites to secure promotion this season. They will compete against eight other provincial champions.
The play-offs will run from 1 to 7 June in the Eastern Cape. The two teams that finish at the top of the standings will automatically gain promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Teams confirmed to represent their provinces are Mpheni Defenders (Limpopo), FC Ravens (Eastern Cape), Mangaung Unite FC (Free State), LA Masia (Gauteng), Nkhambathi (KwaZulu-Natal), Luthu Brigades (Mpumalanga), NC Professionals (Northern Cape), NWU Soccer Institute (North West) and Hope FC (Western Cape).
Asked about the team’s level of readiness for the play-offs, Mpheni Defenders coach Vhutshilo Phuravhathu said the team had resumed normal training sessions immediately after being crowned champions. He said that, judging by their performances in recent practice matches, the players were ready to handle any amount of pressure.
Phuravhathu appealed to local football supporters to rally behind the team during the national play-offs. He added that the team had an advantage because they finished their league programme at the beginning of May, giving them enough time to prepare thoroughly for the play-offs.