Division over seniors in Diski
PSL CLARIFIES THE RULES
THE MultiChoice Diski Challenge (MDC) coaches have mixed emotions about the fielding of first-team and experienced players in the reserve league games.
Some MDC coaches argue that there should be no first-team player in the reserve league.
“I think fielding experienced players in the reserve league games does not help in developing young players. I get a sense that some teams do not care about developing players but they want the championship. I believe that it is a step backwards for a first-team player to be fielded in the MDC games,” said Lamontville Golden Arrows MDC coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi.
Mamelodi Sundowns reserves coach David Notoane had different sentiments: “I think fielding those first-team players helps because they also need game time, so it gives them some game time. You also have to look at it objectively because the first team also needs fit and ready players.’’
Ajax veteran Nathan Paulse is among a couple of premier division players who have featured in recent MDC fixtures.
“This is a good league for youngsters and also for experienced players playing in the PSL who have come back from injuries. I enjoyed it a lot, it’ sa tough league but I had fun and I scored two goals. It was a great game after all,’’ Paulse told Sowetan after helping junior Urban Warriors to a 5-3 win over Cape Town City on Saturday.
Asked about the rules regarding the use of first-team players in the MDC matches, PSL spokesman Luxolo September said: “The maximum number is three. Teams are allowed to use three first-team players and I see no problem about that.’’
Paulse and Ajax teammate Lebohang Mokoena, and Mohau Mokate of Maritzburg United, were among senior players who featured in MDC games at the weekend.