Banyana coffers boosted

BANYANA Banyana received a shot in the arm this week when long-time sponsor Sasol pumped a further R13-million into their coffers.

The deal is spread out over four years and it will prove critical to the national team's efforts to qualify for the next World Cup and the next Olympics.

Banyana have made significant strides both in the continent and in the world in the past four years, including qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics, through such financial backing.

The deal, concluded with Safa, also includes the sponsorship of the country's premier women's football league, the Sasol Women's League.

"We are very proud that this partnership with Safa is making a significant impact on developing women in sport from the ground up. Our players have done the country proud," said Sasol executive director Nolitha Fakude.

In the latest Fifa women's football rankings, Banyana moved up two places to 51st.

Banyana coach Joseph Mkhonza said: "After the success of the past four years, we hope this will be a progression.

"We have to ensure we qualify for the African Women's Championship and the World Cup."