The anticipation is building as the PSL Promotion/Relegation Play-Offs approach, with Orbit College preparing to host Casric Stars. Mzansi football fans are eager to see which team will fight their way into the coveted Betway Premiership. But how have teams that have gained promotion through the play-offs fared in the past?
A Look Back at Play-Off Promotion Successes (and Struggles)
Historically, it wasn't uncommon for a second-tier side to triumph in the play-offs. While it's become less frequent, both Orbit College and Casric Stars are undoubtedly dreaming of securing a place in the top flight of South African football.
However, as history demonstrates, winning promotion is often just the beginning of a challenging journey. The hard work truly starts once a team secures their spot in the PSL.
Classic's Short-Lived Topflight Stint
One example is Classic, who gained promotion after winning a four-team playoff, defeating Hellenic in the final. However, their time in the topflight was brief, as the club was sold to Maritzburg United just two months later. For the remainder of that season, they competed as Maritzburg Classic before the name change could be officially implemented. Ironically, Maritzburg now find themselves battling in the play-off themselves.
Benoni Premier United: From Promotion to Sale
Benoni Premier United, under the ownership of Dumisani Ndlovu, secured promotion by defeating Vasco da Gama in their play-off final. The winning goal came just four minutes from the end of the second leg. However, in 2007, Benoni was sold to Thanda Royal Zulu, with the name change agreed upon shortly after the start of the 2007-08 season.
Carara Kicks: A Single Season in the Spotlight
Carara Kicks earned their promotion after edging out FC AK in their two-legged playoff final. Unfortunately, their debut topflight campaign was disastrous, as they won only five matches and finished at the bottom of the league. The financial burden of running the club proved too much for owner Sipho Pityana, who sold the team to Johnny Mogaladi. Mogaladi's Polokwane City later returned to the Betway Premiership in 2023-24.
Mpumalanga Black Aces: A Rollercoaster Ride
Mpumalanga Black Aces achieved a dramatic victory against Thanda Royal Zulu in the playoff final to gain promotion. However, they finished second last the following season and were forced to return to the Play-Offs. They managed to retain their topflight status by beating Black Leopards on penalties, but were ultimately relegated in 2011.
As Casric Stars and Orbit College prepare for their play-off clash, they will be hoping to learn from the successes and failures of teams that have come before them. The road to PSL glory is paved with challenges, and only the strongest and most resilient team will emerge victorious.