It’s been two months since Vasco da Gama won the Hollywoodbets Third Division title, yet coach Andrew Pequeno and his troops are still in limbo due to the fact that the club has not received any prize money.
In fact, none of the top eight teams received their bonuses for their exploits this past season as stipulated by the custodians of football, Safa.
That said, the team from Parow Park will still have to navigate a way around the other five regions to be successful at the upcoming playoffs, in Plettenberg Bay, Eden on 20 and 21 July.
No Bones with Jones has established that Vasco enquired a few times with the region explaining to them that they are in dire need of the funds which will contribute towards their accommodation or traveling expenses.
One can understand Vasco’s frustration leading up to their biggest test of the season. Besides the financial support one would expect the football authorities to play a more active role in supporting their representative at the playoffs which by the looks of it is non-existent.
A similar fate befalls the other seven clubs who finished in the top eight in the Third Division. It feels very unfair that clubs have to wait months for their bonuses given the fact that clubs do not receive a (travel) subsidy from the powers that be or the sponsor for that matter.
There needs to be some synergy between Safa National and its affiliates to facilitate these processes ensuring that there is better flow and communication between all parties involved.
Although Vasco are left unimpressed and mumbling in their circles, most of these (top 8) clubs will probably let this one slide and use their disposable ‘income’ as registration for the new season – but it just doesn’t feel right.
Meanwhile, Safa Cape Town’s General Secretary Reyaad Joseph says: “Bottom line is, once we receive payment from the national body, then only can the region pay.”
The region’s Head of Competitions Bayanda Sikiti confirmed this adding that clubs are “fully aware” of the process.
