Margeman on big stage
‘U20 World Cup a great opportunity for Amajita to showcase their talent’
GRANT MARGEMAN jetted off for South Korea last night consoled by the fact that Ajax Cape Town are free from any relegation danger. Even more so, he can feel proud of his contribution, in that his mature and influential performances over the last few weeks have rocketed the team up the PSL standings.
When Ajax host Bloemfontein Celtic at Athlone Stadium on Saturday night (8.15pm kickoff), they will have to do so without the multi-talented 18-year-old from Bonteheuwel. But, based on what Margeman has done to inspire the team’s recent improvement, the Capetonians are determined to strive for victory and continue their march for a top-eight finish, if only as a salute to their inspirational young teammate.
“Yes, I’m happy to leave Ajax and to go represent my country, but it was also important for me to leave the team on a high note,” said Margeman.
“And that is what the team has done as we won our last two games (against Platinum Stars and Chippa United). For me, now, I would be really happy if my teammates can kick on and make the top eight.”
With Margeman absent, the challenge for head coach Stanley Menzo, in the club’s remaining three games, is to find someone to replace the youngster in midfield. The former Ajax Amsterdam and Netherlands goalkeeper won’t be short of options – Bantu Mzwakali, Lebogang Mokoena, Toriq Losper, Neo Makua and the two Zambians, Aubrey Funga and Rodrick Kabwe – but the big challenge for whoever is selected is in emulating the enterprise the teenager has brought to the team.
Margeman has been simply brilliant. He has made great strides since being handed his debut this season by Menzo. Not only has he impressed with his touch, awareness of space and intelligent link play, but he has chipped in with some valuable goals too.
The young star will, of course, now be looking to transfer his superb form to the global stage at the Under-20 World Cup in South Korea, which takes place from 20 May to 11 June. The South Africa U20s are in Group D, alongside Japan, Uruguay and Italy.
For Ajax, as usual, their much-praised youth academy has not just sent Margeman to the junior World Cup, but two others as well – attacking midfielder Masilakhe “Scara” Phohlongo and defender Shane Saralina, who have both already had a brief taste of PSL football.
“I think this is going to be a great stage for us as youngsters to showcase our talent and to compare ourselves against the best U20 players in the world,” said Margeman.
“I’m sure it will be a difficult tournament as all teams who have qualified are very good.”
In Japan, Uruguay and Italy, Amajita are in a very tough group though. They will have to be at their best if they are to get through to the next phase of the competition. Margeman is confident that he, and his teammates, will give their best in South Korea, in a bid to make the country proud.
“To be honest, I don’t know all that much about our opposition,” he said.
“But, as players, we leave those details to the coaches. I just know that it’s going to be a difficult group. But, for us, it will be a good achievement if we can get into the knockout stages.”