Royal AM Expelled from NSL: PSL Reveals Updated Log Standings
In a significant development for South African football, Royal AM has officially been expelled from the DStv Premiership, marking the end of a tumultuous chapter for the KZN-based club. This comes after a series of financial troubles and the club’s failure to fulfill their fixtures, a situation that has dominated local football discussions since the beginning of the year.
The Rise and Fall of Royal AM
Royal AM, a club led by chairlady Shauwn Mpisane, has been embroiled in financial difficulties, with reports indicating a R40 million debt owed to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The situation worsened when the club failed to honour their league fixtures, prompting the PSL to take action. Efforts to sell the club’s status to the highest bidder through a SARS-appointed curator were unsuccessful, as the taxman sought to recoup the outstanding debt.
The matter reached a resolution in a recent PSL Board of Governors meeting, where it was decided that Royal AM would be expelled from the league. Despite attempts by club owner, Andile Mkhize, to appeal the decision, it became clear that the club would not be able to complete the season after having played only 11 league games.
PSL Updates the League Standings
Following the expulsion of Royal AM, the PSL has updated the Betway Premiership log standings on its official website. The club has been placed in 16th position with zero games played, and all points earned by teams who faced Royal AM – whether in wins or draws – have been expunged from the standings.
This update has had a significant impact on the league table. Leaders Mamelodi Sundowns now have 22 games played and 55 points, rather than 23 games and 58 points, as previously recorded. Orlando Pirates, who were in second place, now have two games in hand instead of three, a change that could be advantageous given their busy schedule that includes CAF Champions League commitments.
Impact on the League and Other Teams
With the removal of Royal AM’s fixtures, every team in the league will have played 28 matches by the end of the season. The expulsion also means that all the points previously awarded to teams for matches against Royal AM have been wiped off, significantly altering the course of the season for some teams.
For Sundowns and Pirates, the new points tally could change their approach to the remaining fixtures. Pirates, in particular, will now have fewer matches to play, potentially lightening their load as they chase both domestic and continental glory.
Looking Ahead
The PSL is expected to release an official statement soon to provide further details on the Royal AM situation and any other updates related to the matter. With Royal AM now out of the picture, the focus shifts back to the remaining 15 teams as they battle for league positions, with the revised log offering a fresh perspective on the race for the title, top-four finish, and relegation.
For Royal AM, this marks the end of a tumultuous journey that began in 2021 when the club purchased the status of Bloemfontein Celtic. The controversies surrounding the club’s financial mismanagement and failure to meet league obligations have now culminated in their expulsion, leaving a void in the top tier of South African football.
