Duma saved the Day for D’General

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – The newly appointed Head of Corporate Services at Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Mokete Duma has saved the day for the Botshabelo-based team, D’general FC, playing in the ABC Motsepe League.

This followed social media backlash after the Nedbank Cup last 32 clash between D’General against Madridtas FC was moved to Izak Steyl stadium in Vaal due to both Botshabelo and Dr Rantlai Molemela not being compliant after the PSL inspection.

That would have meant the Mangaung team not only would have lost home-ground advantage but would also travel 400 km.

With the PSL having released the fixtures with dates and venues confirmed, Mokete engaged the Free State Rugby Union about the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, and D’General was given the go-ahead though with costs.

The team will have to pay R41 000 and may pay more for damages after and during the match (including chairs).

Other expenses will be security, medical, food, and beverages.

Apart from striking the deal for the team, Mokete committed ambulances, traffic personnel, and Centlec generators for as long as the team is playing in the tournament and using the stadium.

Mokete who has vast experience from his time at COGTA said it was not difficult to get the stadium.

“It was not difficult to get the venue since it is still the property of the Metro, but have entered into a lease agreement with Free State Rugby.”

Asked what would be the cost of having all three stadiums(Botshabelo, Clive Solomon, and Dr Rantlai Molemela Stadium) compliant Mokete said the PSL would give direction.

“We will get exactly what will be the cost once PSL has given us their findings and what needs to be attended, then the cost factor will be determined.”

While many are saying this intervention is a temporary solution Mokete disagrees.

“It’s not temporary as agreed with the stadium management, D’General opted for Botshabelo stadium as their home ground, and upon inspection, it was discovered that it does not meet the requirements, we will be furnished with the details later.

In conclusion, Mokete said the plans are already available to attend to the three stadiums.”

While a fish should not be praised for swimming, there is a breath of fresh air in the municipality from the City Manager, Corporate Services, and Transport.

ADDITION: Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation also played a huge role.

Steve Tshabalala, HOD at SACR about the schedule.

“The game was scheduled and to change the schedule was a mountain that needed all our efforts. The team will not pay anything, security and other staff is responsibility of PSL and Mangaung will bear the costs of stadium, PSL is also making a saving.”

There is a long way to go but it’s indeed a work in progress.

You can support the team by purchasing their merchandise.

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