PSL side Marumo Gallants could face a heavy points deduction in the Betway Premiership following a major ruling over the registration saga involving midfielder Monde Mphambaniso. Cape Town City filed a formal complaint, claiming that Mphambaniso never received a proper clearance from Gallants’ former Motsepe Foundation Championship squad, which was later sold and rebranded as Leruma United.
Gallants’ top-flight future in serious jeopardy
Marumo Gallants returned to South Africa’s elite league in July 2024 after acquiring the Premiership status of Moroka Swallows. In doing so, the Bloemfontein-based side offloaded their second-tier status to a new ownership consortium, who renamed the club Leruma United. However, the transfer of Mphambaniso between these entities has now sparked controversy.
In the 2024/2025 campaign, Gallants finished 10th in the league with 32 points from 28 matches, a return of 8 wins, 8 draws, and 12 defeats. Mphambaniso featured in 26 of those games.
Allege rule violation: PSL opens investigation
Cape Town City argued that Marumo Gallants breached NSL Rule 31.8.9.3, which states that clubs must submit a clearance certificate for any player previously registered as a professional. According to the arbitration ruling, Gallants failed to provide the necessary documentation for Mphambaniso.
“City alleges that Marumo Gallants violated Rule 31.8.9.3 of the NSL handbook, which requires a clearance certificate to be submitted to the league in cases where a player has previously been registered as a professional with a member club.”
SAFA’s arbitration ruled in favour of Cape Town City. Paving the way for the Premier Soccer League’s disciplinary committee to launch an official investigation. A guilty verdict could see Gallants lose points from matches in which Mphambaniso played, potentially altering the final league standings.
Relegated City make last push to reclaim Prem status
Despite failing to survive the Promotional/Relegation Playoffs, which Orbit College won. Cape Town City are now banking on this case to reclaim their place in the top tier.
“This is their final attempt to maintain their top-flight status.”
If the PSL rules in City’s favour, Gallants could be forced into the playoffs or even face automatic relegation. With the season set to begin soon, the pressure mounts for both clubs as the disciplinary process gains momentum.
Will the PSL side Cape Town City get back to the top flight?
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