Polokwane City chairman Johnny Mogaladi has congratulated neighbouring Black Leopards on their promotion back to the Absa Premiership after a five-year absence.

Leopards joined National First Division champions Highlands Park in the top-flight after a 1-0 win over Jomo Cosmos on Wednesday in their final promotion play-off fixture at Thohoyandou Stadium in Venda.

As a result, Platinum Stars were relegated to the NFD, as were Ajax Cape Town, while Jomo Cosmos also missed out on the chance of promotion for another season.

Leopard’s promotion means that Limpopo will now have three representatives in the South African top flight.

Speaking on the result Mogaladi said: ‘We would like to congratulate Black Leopards Football Club for gaining promotion to the ABSA Premiership League.

‘It’s been a long road for them after been relegated five seasons ago. Lidoda Duvha has always been in the play-offs but failed to gain promotion but with the massive support today they made it.

‘The love of people of Venda and football has finally paid off for [Leopards chairman David] Mr. Thidiela; players and their technical team lead by Joel Masutha.

‘Today Black Leopards made history for Limpopo Province – we now have three teams in the Absa Premiership.

‘It must be mentioned that we couldn’t do it without the support from the Premier Stan Mathabatha; MEC of Sports Ms. Onnica Moloi; Polokwane Municipality; Limpopo Tourism Agency and all the beautiful people of Limpopo.

‘What a great time for our people, they will witness tri-derby games in the province.

‘We hope all of us, including Baroka FC and Black Leopards, stay/play in the province for the betterment of our people. Let’s stay in the Absa Premiership and win trophies for the province.

‘Welcome to the big league Lidoda Duvha.’

Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix