Chikila not giving up on his Premiership dream
Passion keeps Bees striker buzzing
In the pursuit of his dream of playing in the Premiership, EC Bees striker Bongani Chikila has taken the road less travelled.
He has been grafting for most of his almost 10-year career as a professional in lower tier football. Currently, the nimble goal-poacher is in the ABC Motsepe League with EC Bees from King William’s Town in the Eastern Cape.
“It’s all about having hope that someone from one of the Premiership clubs will be at the stadium to see you play,” Chikila said.
“It has been tough and I have been through a lot of difficulties in football but I cannot give up.”
The Rocklands, Bloemfontein-born, man has gone back and forth between the National First Division (NFD) and the lower league with African Warriors, Jomo Cosmos, Ace FC and the EC Bees.
Over the years, Chikila has looked on as his teammates graduated to top-flight football – including Vincent Pule, Thabang Monare (both Bidvest Wits) and Gladwin Shitolo (Cosmos).
The 28-year-old’s biggest wish is to taste Premiership football just once in his career.
“I do not feel that it is too late for me. I have a lot to offer and plan to play for years to come.”
Chikila has shown glimpses of brilliance whenever he has faced Premiership sides after scoring against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup.
He was a standout performer last season when the EC Bees lost 3-1 against the Buccaneers, and repeated it again in the 2-1 loss against Sundowns last week.
The father of two boys dedicated his goal against the Brazilians to his granddad Klaas Chikila, who passed away a fortnight ago.
So what is the experience like playing in the third tier? “The league is very competitive and fast-paced. Everyone is fighting for promotion.
“Obviously, you are not in it for the money at this level. As you can imagine we don’t earn a lot, it’s about passion.”