Story by Anashe Murombedzi
The Premier Soccer League is sticking to its guns on the suspension of Bata Stadium in Gweru from hosting topflight matches, arguing new boys Sheasham will face the consequences if they boycott their Match Day 10 encounter against CAPS United slatted for Mandava Stadium.
The Gweru-based side came out guns blazing after the football authorities reversed the ZIFA First Instance Board’s decision to approve Bata Stadium to host league matches.
Bata Stadium only hosted a single match before the Premier Soccer League’s sudden u-turn which has not gone down well with the Gweru-based side.
According to the PSL, there are some civil works that still need to be carried out at the stadium before the venue hosts matches.
Sheasham has however threatened not to fulfil their home fixture against CAPS United scheduled for Mandava Stadium in Zvishavane this weekend, but the PSL remains adamant that the match will go ahead failure of which the Gweru-based side will be penalised.
“We received communication from Sheasham regarding the use of the Bata Stadium. However, as the Premier Soccer League we will respond to the club internally,” noted Premier Soccer League spokesperson, Kudzai Bare.
“Should Sheasham decide not to fulfil their match against CAPS United which is scheduled for Mandava Stadium this Sunday, the PSL will be guided by the rules and regulations to handle the matter,” Bare added.
The PSL decision has also been questioned in various circles with the majority convinced that the football authorities are playing to the gallery at the expense of a small club that has made all the efforts to bring Premier Soccer League football to Gweru.
The decision will also come at a cost for Sheasham who have been travelling to Zvishavane for their home games.
