Moroka Swallows: SAFPU revealed truth

Nhlanhla Shabalala, the General Secretary of the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU), sheds light on the recent turmoil at Moroka Swallows, attributing it to a breakdown of trust between players and management.

In an exclusive statement to SABC Sport, Shabalala disclosed that Swallows’ management failed to fulfil the agreed-upon commitment to pay players their December salaries by the 22nd of the month, sparking the latest dispute.

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Highlighting the impact of this breach, Shabalala emphasised, “The promise made to them was to receive their December salaries by the 22nd, allowing them to prepare for proper Christmas breaks. 

Unfortunately, that commitment was not honoured, further eroding trust between the players and management.”

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) took swift action, announcing the cancellation of Swallows’ fixture against Mamelodi Sundowns and Saturday’s game against Golden Arrows just four hours before kick-off.

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Players uncertainties and issues 

Shabalala expressed the players’ concern over security issues and financial uncertainties, stating, “If they play these games without resolving the outstanding issues, especially the December salaries, further problems could escalate during the recess, impacting various financial commitments such as school fees and family arrangements.”

SAFPU engaged in discussions with Swallows’ leadership and management on Tuesday, followed by a meeting with players the next morning. 

Despite players arriving dressed for the game, the club had reportedly approached the PSL about a potential postponement, anticipating the players’ stance.

Swallows approach PSL about postponement 

“The players came prepared, but discussions with management needed to occur before taking the field. 

The chairman had already informed the PSL about the possibility of cancelling or postponing the game based on the players’ dissatisfaction,” Shabalala explained.

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Reflecting on the situation, Shabalala emphasised the importance of addressing such matters promptly, urging teams not to delay decisions to avoid unnecessary resource wastage. 

In light of the cancelled fixtures, Moroka Swallows faces a lesson in managing crucial matters efficiently to maintain the integrity of league schedules.

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