Local soccer teams live to fight another day
Giyani Happy Boys and Emanuel FC’s match which was scheduled for Saturday, March 11 at Xikukwani stadium was abruptly suspended at the 11th hour due to numerous issues that include outstanding DC hearing verdicts which the South Africa Football Association [SAFA] still needs to sort out before they play.
The match would have been a return match after the two rival teams played a draw on their previous encounter in the ABC Motsepe Stream-A league last year at Giyani Stadium. Being from the same area in Giyani, the two teams have a historic rivalry that seems to motivate each side to play with extra effort every time they meet. This is why the match between the two rival teams has always been about territorial dominance rather than the value of the match points that both sides need to advance their positions in the league.
It is no wonder that their games attract a huge number of spectators. The Saturday match would not have been different, hence its postponement dealt a huge blow to supporters of both sides that were eager to see the winner. However, apart from the historical territorial defence, Emanuel FC would have played the match with little pressure compared to Giyani Happy Boys, since it would have had virtually no impact on their league standings, whether it is won or lost.
Also read: Emmanuel FC leaves Mikhado FC speechless
This is because they have enough points to evade the relegation axe, but way too little to compete for the first position in the league. The Happy Boys, on the other hand, need to keep their points high since they still stand a chance to finish the league in the first position should the Mpheni Home Defenders lose on their DC hearing that is currently underway, and could result in them forfeiting some of their points if found guilty.
At this stage, Mpheni Home Defenders has to forfeit about seven points in order for the Happy Boys to move forward to the first position in the league. This does not look too promising though, but for the Happy Boys fans, it is enough to kindle hope that there is still a chance for their favourite team to make it through.
