Black Leopards release 18 players

In a quest to rebuild the team and to reclaim their status in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), Black Leopards have released 18 players ahead of the new season.

Most of the players who were released featured primarily  in the first team last season. This was confirmed by the team’s newly appointed public relations officer, Mr Barry Ramunenyiwa, who said Leopards wanted to make a quick return to the elite league.

Ramunenyiwa said it was coach Kosta Papic’s wish to release all 18 players as he wanted to rebuild the team. Among the players who were released were Ernot Dzaga, Nkosiyabo Xakane, Humphrey Khoza, skipper Mongedzi Bobe, Azwindini Maphaha, Ayanda Mtshali, Victor Gamuka, Moses Kwena, Ntsolise Gumede, Thulani Nontshingila, and Joshua Obaje. Vincent Mabusela and Postnet Omony were also given free clearance.

Papic recently started with trials in search of new players in Thohoyandou. Speaking about the team’s new season plan, Ramunenyiwa said: "The team will have a complete new look in terms of players. The coach met with board members to discuss plans for the new season. He is focusing on bringing in new players.”

Leopards, who were relegated last season, will make a return to the PSL for the third time if they win the National First Division (NFD) league. "The coach made it clear he would like to give young players from the province a chance to showcase their talent," Ramunenyiwa added. Leopards will face Witbank Spurs, African Warriors, Milano FC and United FC in the NFD.

Date:12 July 2013

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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