In an unprecedented turn of events, the abandoned PSL fixture between SuperSport United and Lamontville Golden Arrows is finally set to resume—three months after being halted by loadshedding.
Read: ‘It Broke Me’ – Mofokeng’s Mom Opens Up
The abandoned match, which could determine a team's fate in the Relegation/Promotion playoffs, raises significant questions about NSL Handbook compliance and whether the correct procedures have been followed.
The original fixture, played in February, was halted at halftime with the score at 1-1 due to a sudden power outage. According to Rule 14.16 of the NSL Handbook, matches abandoned due to insufficient lighting must be resumed within 48 hours at an agreed-upon time and venue. However, this match has defied that requirement, continuing three months later, a decision reportedly influenced by disciplinary proceedings against SuperSport United for failing to provide a backup generator.
Interestingly, a correspondence from acting PSL CEO Mato Madlala dating back to 2022, seen by this publication, clearly outlined the regulations regarding loadshedding and the league’s position on match resumption under such circumstances. This document suggests that league procedures were well-defined before this incident, raising further scrutiny on why a different approach was taken in this case.
Furthermore, PSL legal counsel Michael Murphy sent out another official correspondence to all clubs on 26 May 2025, reinforcing the league’s stance on loadshedding-related match interruptions.
These communications appear to contradict the handling of this particular fixture, leaving clubs and fans questioning whether the rules have been applied consistently.
Right of reply was offered to the PSL, but at the time of publication, there was no response from league officials addressing the concerns raised.
With relegation implications hanging over both teams, more in particular SuperSport, as well as Cape Town City, the delayed resumption could dramatically affect the Betway Premiership standings.
If either club secures crucial points in this match, it may alter the route to the Relegation/Promotion playoffs and spark further debate about league consistency in enforcing rules.
As speculation mounts, one major question remains, has this set a new precedent for match resumption beyond the official 48-hour window?
The outcome of this fixture, scheduled for Thursday 29 May at 12:00 may not only shape the fate of the clubs involved but also influence future policy decisions in South African football.
Read: De Reuck Back In SA After Israeli Struggles
