Mokwena puts Black Poison saga behind him

Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Rhulani Mokwena has finally brought to an end to accusations that he was withholding a clearance certificate for one of the talented players at his amateur club, Black Poison.

Soccer Laduma reported in February that the Downs mentor had been ignoring pleas to give 27-year-old Lesego Motlhamme the green light to move on and take up an opportunity with Varsity College, where the player had been offered a football scholarship.

When contacted for comment by the Siya crew then, Mokwena, who owns the SAB League lower division outfit, indicated that those representing Motlhamme had not given Soccer Laduma all the facts.

“First of all, I should clarify that I do not deal with issuing clearances. The process is

straightforward and we have an office for that,” the coach explained at the time.

“But these matters have to be addressed with respect and humility, not lies. Black Poison has developed players and allowed several of them to join rival clubs or move on without standing in their way, and we didn’t even get a cent. All we are asking for is respect and for matters to be handled amicably. Lesego has my number and can call me.”

Now, six months later, the crew has seen the clearance certificate that has since been issued and had led to this saga.

It confirms Motlhamme, who has in the past been assessed by top-flight clubs – including Chippa United during Mokwena’s brief spell there in 2020 – could finally move on to join a club of his choice.

According to the document, Black Poison have terminated the contract with immediate effect and “without further recourse by either party.”