Motsepe soccer champs finally get under way

THE delay in the kickoff of the Safa Eastern Cape ABC Motsepe Second Division League may have led to teams being a bit idle, but officials say it is all systems go this weekend.

The province's semi-professional soccer league will finally swing into action tonight after a four-month break.

The league is hosted by all nine provinces, with 16 teams competing for the Eastern Cape championship. The winner of each province will qualify for the national playoffs for promotion to the National First Division.

Safa provincial secretary Isaac Klaas confirmed that league fixtures would start today.

He said the league's delay was caused by the clubs' registration, fixtures and change of venues.

"We wish all teams everything of the best during their campaign and hope the best team wins the league.

"Also, Fifa fair play should be kept in mind by teams at all times."

He said the provincial executive committee were hopeful that the provincial winner would participate successfully in the national championship at the end of the season.

East London-based outfit Angavu Stars won the Eastern Cape title last season but were eliminated in the group stages of the national championship.

Nelson Mandela Bay region will be represented by four teams – Highbury, who finished third last season, Real City (Motherwell), Morning Stars (Kwazakhele) and newly promoted Swartkops Valley United Brothers (Subs), also from Motherwell.

Subs will get their challenge under way when they host neighbours Cacadu United at the Gelvandale Stadium tonight at 6.30pm.

The other fixtures are:

Tonight, 7pm: Morning Stars v Mthatha Bucks (Zwide Stadium)

Tomorrow, 3pm: Highbury v Zimbane Killers (Rotary Stadium, Mthatha), Real City v Kokstad Liverpool (Riverview Stadium, Kokstad) - Mthetho Ndoni