This season’s Betway Premiership has been the closest in recent times in the not-so-distant history of the PSL (Premier Soccer League), as title holders Masandwana Mamelodi Sundowns and title chasers the Buccaneers Orlando Pirates have been at each other taking turns changing the pole position for the most part of the season.
It has been the closest as both teams in the last recent matches either could have clinched the title with wins but alas results went the other way as party spoilers made the most of the spoiling. The race has been such a breath of fresh air as it has not only shown prospects of a possible change of guard but has also brought the much needed competition that not only markets the league and attracts more sponsors but also speaks well of South African football.
I mean who would want to sponsor something where the script is already written and will be a one horse race. Mamelodi Sundowns having already played their full circle of matches for the premier league season are sitting on 68 points whilst Orlando Pirates sit on 66 points with one game left which is a must win for them to be crowned champions .
The interesting scenario is the Soweto giants meet Orbit College who have all to play for to stay in the PSL else they will be relagted, and either a draw or win do for them. It’s a perfect scenario as Orbit won’t be looking to do any favors to either the top 2 teams but to compete and survive relegation.
Just as TS Galaxy ruined things for the Tshwane giants and handed Sundowns defeat when a win would have all but confirmed them retaining the title, Durban City threw spanners in the works for the Buccaneers as they forced a stalemate putting their title triumph hopes on hold.
With twists in the results, noone can be rest assured of what the last day of the season will produce,but however the outcome it has been the most entertaining, enthralling football season in the PSL.
Mamelodi Sundowns and their fans would be hoping fate be cruel to their challengers and fall short and they be crowned champions,and get a double as they are on the cusp of continental glory.
The Buccaneers will be hoping for a treble as they have won both the Carling Black Label as well as the Mtn 8, so both teams have a historic season ending to look forward to.
