Posted in News on Sep 15, 2004.
The semifinals feature a mouthwatering contest between Supersport United and Wits University in Rustenburg; while Moroka Swallows will take on Kaizer Chiefs in Durban.
South African Airways and the Premier Soccer League will partner the Ethekwini Municipality in hosting the well-awaited “final before the final” clash between Moroka Swallows and Kaizer Chiefs.
Addressing a Press Conference held at the ABSA Stadium in Durban, Ethekwini Municipality, Deputy Mayor, Logie Naidoo said “it is such a pleasure to welcome the SAA Supa 8 semi-finals in Durban, particularly the contest between Kaizer Chiefs and Moroka Swallows as people of the city had not seen these two Soweto giants clash in a long time in Durban. The event will surely boost the economy and tourism of the city and will remain in the minds of our people for a very long time to come.”
“It’s important to us that the Ethekwini Municipality has welcomed the opportunity to host this encounter and we appreciate their support in helping us to bring soccer to the people of Kwa-Zulu Natal,” said Rich Mkhondo, Communications Manager of SAA.
Spectators look forward to entertainment by well-known kwaito artist, Zola, as well as prominent DJ’ Tira and KJR Pantsula Dancers.
The newly appointed Chief Operations Officer of the Premier Soccer League, Sizwe Nzimande said: “The PSL is eternally grateful to sponsors like South African Airways for making tournaments like the SAA Supa 8 a reality”.
“The partnership between the nation’s number one sport and the number one airline is a winning one; and one the PSL are confident it is here to stay,” Nzimande concluded.
Speaking on behalf of Moroka Swallows PRO Sipho Xulu said his charges were getting ready to change the history of being Amakhosi’ whipping boys and were looking forward to fulfill what his club missed narrowly last season, that of lifting the trophy at the expense of Chiefs.
His counterpart at Chiefs, Putco Mafani oozed with confidence when he said, "We are happy that we are playing well and that gives us a bit of confidence as we approach this tricky encounter and we know how disappointed our fans and supporters were because the Vodacom Challenge finals did not come here and we will make it up to them in style. All fans should come here ready to eat chicken pieces on Sunday for lunch.”
Mafani went on to say team doctors will confirm by the end of the week if dribbling wizard Thabo Mooki and Derrick Spencer would make the trip.
Tickets for this SAA Supa 8 semifinal are available at Computicket outlets nationwide. Ticket prices are R20. At the time of going to the Press Conference more than 14 000 tickets were already sold at the outlets.
South African Airways has organised travel packages for fans who wish to travel from Johannesburg to Durban. Spectators can call (011) 978-1144 for more details.