The annual ABC Motsepe Play-offs which begin in Kimberley on July 20, will see two third-tier clubs promoted to the National First Division as replacement for the relegated Maluti FET College and Garankuwa United.

 

Nine provincial winners, including Mthatha Bucks, Cape Town’s Glendene United, who once plied their trade in the FPL, Roses United, North West Shinning Stars and African All Stars of Gauteng, are some of the favourites.

 

Despite talk that the tournament had been delayed, SAFA’s competitions director, Jeff Monnakgotla, fiercely denied these claims.

 

“That’s definitely not the case, it’s never been delayed,” he told the Siya crew. “The matches take place between 20th and 26th of July.”

 

Other sides looking to join the professional ranks are Mbombela United, well known for their good 2014 Nedbank Cup run, Limpopo’s Magezi FC, Kuruman Kicks FC and either Milford FC or Kings United from KZN.