Swallows bid fails, Stars shine on

THE deal between Free State Stars and Moroka Swallows has broken down. As a result, the club will continue to campaign in the PSL, while Swallows will have to take their place in the nether regions of the Second Division.

A consortium of businessmen, on behalf of Swallows, were set to purchase the top- flight franchise of Stars and, in that way, return to the PSL.

But it’s all come to nothing, with the club now looking forward to the new season under new French coach, Denis Lavagne.

In an official statement yesterday, Ea Lla Koto announced: “The club confirms the failed sale of the franchise. The deal has fallen through as the consortium has failed to meet some of the conditions of sale set by the National Soccer League, more particular that relating to the payment of the sale price.

“As a result, Free State Stars FC is back in business and in full preparation for the 2016- 17 season. Fortunately, our pre- season preparations were not affected by the sale situation, other than the transfer of a few of our players to other clubs.

“This is quite familiar to us as we are usually forced into a situation whereby we need sell some of our best players every season in order to keep our club in business.”