Sekhukhune United is facing increasing pressure as player Shaune Mogaila continues to be embroiled in legal troubles stemming from a tragic accident last October, where reckless driving resulted in the death of a nine-year-old girl. This situation is already raising eyebrows as the club is set to face Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday.
Mogaila has been charged with culpable homicide after turning himself in to authorities following the incident on Andrew Mapheto Road, which also injured several other passengers. His legal proceedings have been delayed; he made his second appearance at the Tembisa Magistrate's Court on February 5, with the case adjourned until May 19 to allow for additional investigations. Despite his legal troubles, Mogaila returned to the field to help secure a 4-2 victory for Sekhukhune against AmaZulu FC shortly after his initial court appearance.
The public reaction has been mixed, especially on social media, where many expressed outrage when Mogaila scored the winning goal during the team’s recent match against Chippa United. Critics are questioning the ethics of allowing him to play when the circumstances surrounding the accident are so severe.
Adding to the controversy, the family representative of the deceased child, Sifiso Sikhosana, has flatly denied claims made by Sekhukhune United spokespersons stating they had received the family's blessing for Mogaila to play. "I just want to assure you, that's not the truth. Nothing has happened. We never met them (the club), we never gave them the green light to play Shaune Mogaila," Sikhosana said on Radio 2000's Game On.
Legally, Mogaila is permitted to continue participating until any court order is issued. Tyrell Singh, an associate attorney and sports lawyer, elaborated on the legal framework saying, "The principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ holds, allowing him to train and play until the court takes action.”
Meanwhile, on another front, Sekhukhune United is reportedly exploring the transfer of midfielder Webber as he nears the end of his contract with the club. The player has not seen significant game time under coach Lehlohonolo Seema, falling down the ranks due to the competitive environment within the squad.
Sources indicate advanced discussions with the USL Championship side, Tulsa, as Sekhukhune is open to facilitating the transfer for Webber. The 27-year-old player, who joined the side from SuperSport United in July 2023, has struggled to secure his spot within the club, hence the move to Tulsa is viewed as providing him with not just another chance but also potential exposure to one of the world's most renowned leagues.
It has been reported over the past few transfer windows, Webber was linked with other clubs within the Premier Soccer League (PSL), but no deals came to fruition since he remains under contract with Sekhukhune. The club, currently holding the third position on the Betway Premiership table, is facing off against log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday, which could influence the final decision on Webber.
The club hierarchy seems poised to enable the transfer, aligning with their strategy of providing opportunities for players who aren’t making significant contributions to the team. Given their respect for player agency, it appears they won’t obstruct the impending transfer for Webber.
Next week’s match against Mamelodi Sundowns will not only hold significance for the current standings but also for players like Mogaila and Webber, who are both seeking to find clarity on their futures either through legal channels or on the field of play.