Big-spending Premiership side Mamelodi Sundowns continue to lead the pack during the 2004 edition of the Telkom Charity Cup voting standings.
The Chloorkop-based side, who failed to qualify to participate in the past two editions of the tournament, had by late on Wednesday collected 23 748 votes.
”We appreciate the support we have been getting from our fans who have been voting in big numbers for us to take part in the tournament,” said Sundowns spokesperson Alex Shakoane.
”It is clear our supporters and the people of Tshwane would like to see Sundowns being part of the tournament this year. We still urge them to continue voting in big numbers.
”The good thing about the tournament is that it is the charity organisations who will benefit. Our aim is not only to qualify, we also want to win the title.”
The Brazilians took over the voting standings leadership from defending champions Kaizer Chiefs about two weeks ago.
They have been topping the chart since then.
Chiefs have since been relegated to the second spot on the standings with 16 151 votes, followed by Orlando Pirates and Moroka Swallows who are sitting on 15 134 and 4 441 votes respectively.
Black Leopards of Limpopo are fifth with 3 508 votes.
The top four clubs will battle it out for the honours at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on July 31. The organisers are hoping to raise more than R3-million for charity organisations this year. — Sapa