…to boost struggling clubs’ gate takings
Leemisa Thuseho
THE Premier League Management Committee (PLMC) has scheduled a triple-header for this weekend in an effort to help clubs generate better gate takings.
According to fixtures released on Tuesday this week, three Vodacom Premier League (VPL) matches will be played at the Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena on Sunday. The move is aimed at attracting better fan attendance and improve gate takings for financially crippled soccer clubs.
LMPS will take on Linare at 12:00hrs, followed by Limkokwing University (LU) against Bantu at 14:30hrs, before LCS face Lioli at 17:00hrs.
PLMC spokesperson, Moeketsi Ramakatsa, told the Lesotho Times that the initiative is aimed at improving gate takings revenues, which have been low when teams host matches separately.
“We have conducted a study on gate-takings’ performance and discovered that when teams play at separate venues, the returns are very low,” Ramakatsa said.
“When we looked into the ticketing system, we realised that double-headers perform better, so we decided to try a triple-header. Our teams are struggling financially, and we have to find ways to support them.”
He also said hosting multiple matches at one venue is also likely to attract a larger crowd, creating a vibrant atmosphere that encourages teams and players to perform at their best.
“A triple-header will draw more supporters, and that also motivates players knowing that many people are watching. For fans, it’s an opportunity to watch several exciting games in one place and in one day,” he said.
However, concerns have been raised about the 17:00hrs fixture between Lioli and LCS, as it may extend into darkness.
But Ramakatsa has assured the clubs that the PLMC has planned with the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) to use the ground’s floodlights if necessary.
Meanwhile, in another league fixture on Sunday, the in-form Majantja will host Members at Sebatana Russell Technical Centre in Mohale’s Hoek.
On Saturday, Matlama travel to Maputsoe to face Lifofane at the Tšeliso “Saxophone” Thejane Technical Centre, while Machokha battle Lijabatho at Bambatha. Liphakoe meet LDF at Ratjomose, while Manonyane host Matlama at Nyakosoba Ground.
