Striking Swallows hit with beefy R1m fine for PSL no-shows, but avoid nastier sanctions

Moroka Swallows have forfeited six log points and slapped with a hefty fine of R1 million for their failure to participate in DStv Premiership matches against Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows in December.

Swallows informed the PSL that they couldn't fulfill the matches because of players striking over unpaid salaries.

Subsequently, last week, PSL prosecutor Zola Majavu charged the Dube Birds with misconduct and bringing the league into disrepute.

On Thursday, a final decision was reached after Swallows appeared before the PSL disciplinary committee (DC).

Swallows, who pleaded guilty and expressed remorse, avoided suspension or expulsion from the league, Majavu confirmed. 

Out of the R1 million fine, R600,000 is suspended for 24 months, contingent on the condition that Swallows are not found guilty of the same offense during the suspension period.

"I can confirm that Moroka Swallows appeared before the PSL DC to answer to charges of misconduct on account of their non-fulfillment of the fixtures which were scheduled for the December 27 and 30 against Mamelodi Sundowns and Lamontville Golden Arrows respectively," said Majavu.

"After the charges were put to them, they pleaded guilty. The league accepted the plea and as a result they were convicted accordingly.

"With regards to sanctions, having listened to the submissions from the two legal representatives on behalf of the league and as well as Moroka Swallows, the DC returned the following ruling:

"In respect of each match that was not honoured, the opponents of Moroka Swallows were awarded that match on the basis of three points and three goals. This is what is referred to as a walkover.

"They were further fined R1m, of which R600,000 is suspended for 24 months on condition