As the PSL's Promotion/Relegation Play-Offs kick off with Orbit College hosting Casric Stars, Mzansi football fans are holding their breaths. Will Orbit College follow in the footsteps of those who thrived, or stumble like others before them? History offers a mixed bag of fortunes for teams promoted via this route.
A Look Back at Play-Off Promoted Teams
In the past, it was common for second-tier sides to triumph in the play-offs. Though less frequent nowadays, Orbit College and Casric Stars undoubtedly dream of securing a coveted spot in the Betway Premiership. However, history underscores that promotion is often just the beginning of a challenging journey.
Classic's Fleeting Top-Flight Appearance
Classic achieved promotion through a four-team play-off, defeating Hellenic in a two-legged final. Sadly, their top-flight stint was short-lived. The club was sold a mere two months later to Maritzburg United, who competed as Maritzburg Classic before a full name change. Ironically, Maritzburg now find themselves entangled in the very play-off system that brought Classic to prominence.
Benoni Premier United: A Brief Spark
Businessman Dumisani Ndlovu acquired Hellenic's franchise and steered Benoni to promotion with a narrow 1-0 aggregate victory over Vasco da Gama. Their stay in the top flight was also brief, and in 2007 Benoni was sold to Thanda Royal Zulu, with the name change swift.
Bay United's Struggles
After edging out FC AK in their play-off final, Bay United faced immense difficulty in the PSL. They managed only five wins in their debut season, finishing bottom of the table. The financial strain proved too much for owner Sipho Pityana, leading to the sale of the club to Johnny Mogaladi. Mogaladi's Polokwane City later returned to the Betway Premiership in the 2023-24 season.
Mpumalanga Black Aces: A Rollercoaster Ride
Mpumalanga Black Aces secured promotion in dramatic fashion against Thanda Royal Zulu. The following season saw them finish second-to-last, forcing them back into the play-offs. They managed to retain their top-flight status by defeating Black Leopards on penalties, but were ultimately relegated in 2011. Orbit College and Casric Stars must learn from these successes and failures if they want to maintain their place in the PSL.