The dramatic conclusion of the North West ABC Motsepe League season continues to unfold, as Lerumo Lions have confirmed their intention to pursue an appeal against the recent ruling involving Thames FC.
This comes after the SAFA North West DC handed down its judgment on a case involving Lions and Thames on Wednesday, 4 June 2025.
Lions lodged a complaint to SAFA against Thames for playing an ineligible player, but the verdict concluded in Thames’ favour, deeming them not guilty.
Therefore, Lions are determined to stand firm as they are eager to contest the decision, refusing to succumb to what they call ‘injustice’.
THE PLAYER IN THE LERUMO LIONS AND THAMES FC CASE
Thames FC finds itself embroiled in controversy concerning the eligibility of player Isa Mangera. According to league rules and regulations, Mangera reportedly joined the team without submitting a signed medical form. It’s alleged that Thames FC then presented an incorrect medical form to the league, leading to the player’s subsequent default.
The DC ruling stated that there is no case that Thames is required to answer, as the complaint did not provide enough evidence to support their case.
However, according to FARPost sources, Lions submitted all required documents to build a strong case, and do not understand why the SAFA DC stated that there has been no evidence presented before.
Moreover, the complaint is astonished by the ruling decision that they received without the signature and name of the disciplinary committee’s chairperson, which is incorrect.
As a result, Lions have decided to appeal the matter because they believe there is foul play in the ruling they received from SAFA.
Currently, Thames have collected enough points to win the North West Motesepe League. They are sitting comfortably at the top of the table with 98 points after 36 matches. However, Thames won’t be crowned champions until the case is resolved.
Meanwhile, Lions are placed second on the table with 89 points from 35 outings.
Both teams want to see themselves playing in the SA third-tier National Playoffs and gain promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, and also stand a chance to play in the Betway Premiership in the near future.
THE DC RULING ON THE CASE INVOLVING LERUMO LIONS AND THAMES FC
“I confirm that I have received Article 109 of the South African Football Association [“SAFA”] Regulations Disciplinary Code referral and supporting documents. I, further, confirm that I have perused all the supporting documents as submitted by both Lerumo Lions Football Club and Thames Football Club and have deliberated on the issues to be investigated in terms of Article 110,” reads the DC ruling statement.
“I confirm that we gave both parties an opportunity to submit additional information for the purpose of this investigation. The documentation before me and the disciplinary committee was evaluated in its totality, and inclusive of arguments advanced by both parties.
“It is not clear, and no evidence has been presented before me in respect of when Lerumo Lions FC became aware of these alleged transgressions. It is, therefore, practically impossible for me to meaningfully assist this process where the availability of the evidence cannot be tested.
“I have, on this basis and in line with the Disciplinary Code and the Uniform Rules, decided that there is no case that Thames FC is required to answer to. The rules of the Uniform Rules are clear in respect of when a complaint may be raised by the affected party pertaining to the registration of a player. The rules further outline the time limit in which the same may be raised by the aggrieved party. There is, therefore, no reasonable cause to institute disciplinary proceedings against Thames FC.
LERUMO LIONS ORDERED TO PLAY THE COSTS OF THE SITTING
“Considering that the investigation is pursuant to a complaint by Lerumo Lions, Lerumo Lions is to bear the costs of sitting. The Costs of the Sitting are limited to those incurred by SAFA in establishing the inquiry.
“The costs are payable within 14 days. Should Lerumo fail to pay the costs, Lerumo shall be summoned to appear before the Disciplinary Committee for failing to abide by the Decision of the Disciplinary Committee.”
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