Khoza congratulates Bay United

2008-07-14 09:37

Johannesburg - Premier Soccer League chairperson, Dr Irvin Khoza, was one of the first people to congratulate Bay United on winning promotion to the Absa Premiership on Sunday.

The Port Elizabeth-based First Division outfit, in only their third season in professional football overcame FC AK 2-1 at the Wolfson Stadium to clinch the 16th Premiership spot.

"I'd like to congratulate Bay United on reaching the PSL," said PSL chairperson, Irvin Khoza, who conveyed this message immediately after the match to Bay United chairperson, Sipho Pityana.

"It's certainly a remarkable achievement for the team from Port Elizabeth who've made it to the lucrative Premiership at their first attempt in the playoffs," added Khoza.

"It also goes to prove that the National First Division is a strong league as Bay United had to overcome teams from the PSL to confirm their spot."

Khoza was further encouraged by what he saw in Port Elizabeth.

"The fans came out in their numbers to support Bay United and this augurs well for the team as the league spreads its wings to another province. We certainly look forward to Port Elizabeth and the Eastern Cape becoming part of our landscape in the upcoming season."

Victory

United's coach Vladislav Heric attributes their success to teamwork and hard work by club management, the technical team and the players.

Heric, whose first stint as coach in South Africa was with City Pillars a few years ago, was lifted aloft at the stadium in KwaZakhele after the victory.

The Serbian coach said that he was proud of his team's performance that brings top flight football back to the Eastern Cape.

"It was not only about individual performance, but through teamwork and hard work from everybody involved with this team. On Sunday against FC AK, my players showed great character and maintained tactical discipline throughout the game. I thought we deserved victory because we created more chances and even missed a penalty."

Heric said he would give his players a two-week break before resuming preparations for their season in the PSL.

He, however, refused to talk about his own future with "Watsh'Umlilo" after helping them gain promotion.

"At this moment let's not talk about my future with the team but rather enjoy this victory to the fullest."

Bay United players and technical team will share R1 million for helping the team qualify for PSL next season.

For more PSL news, visit kickoff.co.za

- Kickoff