SOCCER – IT seems there is no end in sight to the controversial status-swap saga, with Manzini Wanderers reportedly preparing to take legal action against Red Rhinos.
This follows Red Rhinos President Sithembiso ‘Ngudze’ Mamba’s formal withdrawal from the agreement with the hub giants last week. Mamba cited concerns over the club’s identity, existing player contracts, registration issues and outstanding payments as reasons for the decision.
Mamba also pointed out that Red Rhinos were not prepared to operate under another club’s name. However, reports indicate that Manzini Wanderers’ legal team is preparing to take action against the Rhinos president, alleging that he acted unfairly in the deal.
Sources close to the matter revealed that the Weslians could soon file court papers seeking an order to stop Red Rhinos from playing matches until the dispute is resolved.
“Wanderers’ legal team is preparing something to stop Red Rhinos’ matches because they believe they were hard done in the deal. It’s a wait-and-see situation, but the situation on the ground doesn’t look good at the moment,” said the source.
Wanderers Communications Manager Sandile ‘Ntofo’ Dlamini said the status deal was being handled at the highest level of the club.
“I may not be aware of the latest developments since the issue of the status is being handled by the directors,” he said.
Meanwhile, Red Rhinos Public Relations Officer Sifiso Mamba said the club’s president had handled the matter appropriately.
“I haven’t heard that Wanderers is planning to take legal action against us. But what I know is that our president handled this issue very well. Wanderers also indicated that they can’t play under another club’s name. They also failed to honour the 8 BET Trade Fair Cup match against Green Mamba. That’s when we took it upon ourselves to play the match for fear of ruining our reputation,” he said.
“Red Rhinos are in the Premier League and are preparing for the league opener against Pigg’s Peak Professionals.”
Mamba added that the team’s friendly matches at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre on Saturday had been beneficial as they allowed the players and technical team to go back to the drawing board and rectify their mistakes.
The Lubombo-based outfit earned promotion to the Premier League after finishing top of the Mulasport National First Division.
For Manzini Wanderers, it remains to be seen whether they will ultimately win their battle to remain in the top flight.
