The defeat meant that they finished last in the PSL and they were automatically relegated to the National First Division. Earlier in the week Gallants were also knocked out of the CAF Confederations Cup in the semi-finals.

The Gallants coach Raymond Madaka said being relegated is a disaster and they never thought that it would come to this.

“We are very much disappointed because we never expected that. We never thought we could lose, especially in this game. But it happens in football,” said Mdaka.

“We will just take it from here, there is nothing we can do. This is so bad. I really didn’t expect it at all.

“Honestly, we thought maybe we wouldn’t concede like other days and keep the status of the team.”

“A lot of things went wrong. Sometimes we play well and do not score and that’s a problem. I think that’s where it started.

“If you can’t score, obviously, the chances are that the other team will get their opportunity and scores which ends up bad.”

Chippa United finished second from last in the PSL and they will have to play in the promotion-relegation playoffs.

For Gallants there is a lot of uncertainty going ahead. The team was set for a permanent relocation to Bloemfontein in order for PSL football to be played in the Free State. The team played a handful of games in Bloemfontein earlier in the season and they received very good support. It remains to be seen if the team will still adopt the city as their new home now that they are playing in the lower tier.

Meanwhile, Gallants still held their annual awards function on the weekend, despite being relegated. Celimpilo Ngema was the big winner after being named as the Gallants Player of the Season.

All award winners below:

Player of the Season: Celimpilo Ngema

Fan Favourite Player and Top Scorer: Ranga Chivaviro

Best Newcomer: Lesiba Nku

Most Consistent Player: Lebogang Mabotja

Midfielder of the Season and Most Assists: Lucky Mohomi

Defender of the Season: Mpho Mvelase

Most Promising Player: Sibusiso Nkosi

Chairman’s Award: Washinton Arubi and Raymond Mdaka

Special Appreciation Award: Abram Sello

Most Uplifting Player, Best Leadership Qualities: Lehlohonolo Nonyane (voted for by the players)

Best Technical Team Member: Amos Dhlomo (voted for by the players)

Morgan Piek OFM Sport