After an inconsistent run of form in the Ethiopian Premier League (EPL) Defense, Dedebit, and South Police FC have been relegated following week 29 matches. Dedebit FC became the first club to be relegated in this season’s EPL with two matches remaining and collecting only 13 points.
Following the end of week 29 EPL fixtures, Defense and the newbie South Police were relegated on Thursday, July 3, 2019. Defense was beaten by top flight Mekele 70 Enderta 2-1 in Addis Ababa. The army side was thought to be in-form after winning the Ethiopian Cup and their relegation comes as a surprise since they have managed to stay in the top flight for 14 seasons.
Defense FC only managed to amass 29 points after playing 29 games, leading to a 15th placed finish, winning seven games, drawing eight and losing 14. The football club, though managing to perform well for the first ten matches, quickly fell-off the wagon, marred by inconsistencies. However, it is to be noted that Defense was the only football club which has not signed foreign players.
South Police, who only managed to collect 29 points, have also been relegated after a 3-0 defeat by Fasil City. South Police were relegated in the 2011 EPL season, making their return this season.
Elsewhere, Dedebit has also registered the least point tally in the season. The Blues only managed to collect 13 points. It is to be recalled that months ago, Dedebit has been announced that they are unable to stay in the league due to a financial crisis. Nonetheless, the club management again declared that their financial problems have been solved. Dedebit was defeated by Sidama Coffee 3-1.
Week 30 EPL fixtures will decide the 2018/19 EPL winner. Fasil City, Mekele, and Sidama Coffee, with 56, 56 and 55 points, respectively, will have the advantage to win trophy.
