Wanderers settling well at new home stadium

The recent move by local Motsepe Foundation Championship (National First Division) outfit Midlands Wanderers to Mpumalanga Stadium in Hammarsdale seems to be paying off in a number of ways. Last week the team officially announced that they will be taking their future home games to Mpumalanga instead of Harry Gwala Stadium, this after having a number of fallouts with the Msunduzi Municipality about maintaining the local stadium The other reason that forced the Abafana Bebatha’s management to move out of the local soccer venue was the new charges of about R40 000 expected to be paid by the team for the use of the stadium. Wanderers founder and the head coach Vincent “Masenti” Myeni said the new charges imposed on his team was the last straw, adding that it was clear they are not wanted by the local municipality.

“The new figures or money that we need to pay every time when we play at home made it clear to us that we are not welcomed and we will never be accommodated at Harry Gwala Stadium. I also felt that they were looking for a reason to chase us out,” said Myeni. Judging by their recent form after leaving Harry Gwala Stadium, the Mpumalanga Township soccer venue has quickly become the new happy hunting ground for Abafana Bebatha.

On Wednesday last week, Wanderers hosted The Bees from Malahleni in Mpumalanga province and played a goalless draw. And on Saturday Wanderers again hosted another outfit from Mpumalanga province — Leicesterford City — and were able to collect maximum points after winning 1-0. What was clear during their two opening fixtures in their new home was that Wanderers players looked motivated, relaxed and comfortable on the ball.

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The sleek conditions of the pitch seems to suit their style of playing. Wanderers media officer Sthembiso Hlongwana also confirmed that they are satisfied with the conditions around Mpumalanga Stadium, especially the playing field. The first thing you noticed about the stadium is the pitch is taken care of, it’s properly marked and the grass nicely cut.

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