Bloemfontein shutdown forces clubs to switch venues

The Premier Soccer League has ordered improvements to the Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein after its pitch conditions fell below standard, forcing Marumo Gallants and Siwelele to find alternate venues.

Gallants, who reached this season’s Carling Knockout final but have dropped to 14th place in the Betway Premiership after losing six successive matches, announced on Tuesday they would be moving home games to the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.

The first fixture to be affected by the stadium shutdown will be Siwelele’s home game against TS Galaxy on Saturday, February 28, while Marumo Gallants have already announced their March 1 match against Durban City has been moved to Pretoria.

“Marumo Gallants FC wishes to formally announce a temporary change of home venue from Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein to Lucas Moripe Stadium located in Atteridgeville, Pretoria,” a club statement on Tuesday said.

“This decision follows ongoing pitch and infrastructure maintenance currently taking place at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium after the venue did not meet the required standards during a Premier Soccer League inspection.

“We would like to reassure our loyal supporters in Bloemfontein and across the Free State that the club is not relocating. This is a temporary measure to ensure compliance with league requirements while necessary upgrades are being completed.

“We remain fully committed to our home in Bloemfontein, and all matches will return to Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium as soon as maintenance is finalised and the venue is cleared for use,” Gallants added.

Siwelele have not yet made any announcement on where they will move the Galaxy clash.