PSL
PSL set to alter MTN8 format
2011-07-26 10:54
Johannesburg - The Premier Soccer League could alter the format of the MTN8,
giving even more advantage to the sides that finished in the top four,
it has been reported.
As it stands the team that finishes first plays the eighth-placed
side, the second placed team plays seventh, third placed plays six, and
fourth plays fifth.
But whereas in the past a draw determined which team had home
ground advantage, that rule may be scrapped with the top four sides
automatically becoming the home teams.
PSL general manager Derek Blanckensee refused to confirm or deny
the rumours as he told the Sowetan: "We are going to make an
announcement with regard to the matter you are raising on Friday."
PSL acting chief executive Ronnie Schloss added: "Let us wait for Friday and we will inform you about the venues and dates."
SuperSport United communications manager David Skosana said: "It
is true there is something along those lines but we are unhappy about
it.
"It is surprising that they are trying to change the format now
after our coach Gavin Hunt suggested it in the past after winning the
league.
"We don't have a problem with the format change but we are
against it now because they should have effected the change at the
beginning of the season. We know the participating teams in this
tournament are seeded, but it has always been a norm to have a draw
determining the clubs hosting the games.
"We know we have a good leadership in charge of the PSL that is
doing a great job and are confident they will resolve the matter."