Vladislav Vacates’ Reign At Bay United

Vladislav Heric has parted company with Premier Soccer League outfit Bay United, the reason cited that he as unhappy with several recommendations made by the club’s Board of Directors. The performances of the South African first-tier club have come under close scrutiny from those on the board after their season has started in defective fashion.

Heric’s tenure had been cast into uncertainty after a dismal start to the season saw Bay United flirt with relegation as they currently stand one place above the trapdoor. Five defeats in 8 matches is substandard form that would ask questions of virtually any management setup, but the catalyst behind Heric’s departure was the interference shown by the board. The Directors assembled a list of shortcomings that had clearly contributed to the turbulence demonstrated in the season’s opening stint.

The recommendations proposed by the board would have seen the coach form a closer working relationship with the Technical Committee and the immediate appointment of a Technical Director and an Assistant Coach. It was granted that the Technical Committee would review every match to eradicate any withstanding problems and it would work in accordance with the coach to develop an effective and logical team selection. The next figure overseeing the matters of team affairs will deal with slightly different responsibilities to those that faced Heric, who quit in dispute over the apparent interference with his first-team duties.

Bay United chairman Sipho Pityana accepted the resignation of Serbian Vladislav, stating ‘we would like to thank him for the contribution he made to the club’s growth and development.’ Goalkeeper Pernel McKop will be promoted to head coach on a temporary basis whilst the club search for a full-time replacement.

Adjusting to life in South Africa’s summit division has been demanding for Bay United after their heroics in the National First Division Play-Offs last year. Matters return to the pitch this Sunday as Bay United hope to overturn the form guide by defeating last season’s runners-up Ajax Cape Town. Defending champions SuperSport United welcome the challenge of inconsistent AmaZulu, while the Orlando Pirates faithful will demand all three points and a convincing display against Thanda Royal Zulu FC.

Recent PSL Action: Orlando Pirates trumped Kaizer Chiefs to the local derby honour by beating their foes 2-0 in a match that was out of the ordinary - renovations to the national Soccer City stadium meant that the fixture was competed in the North-West region of the country. Zimbabwean striker Gilbert Mushangazhike headed the Pirates into the lead after 21 minutes and the advantage was doubled shortly after due to Lucas Thwala’s cross conversion.