BACKPAGE phakaaathi.co.za ‘We can go all the way’
THOBEJANE: TO MAINTAIN OUR POSITION WE HAVE TO SCORE MORE GOALS
Coach credits Doctor Khumalo for Baroka’s flying start.
Baroka FC coach Kgoloko Thobejane is confident his side can sustain an unlikely challenge for the Absa Premiership title as the season progresses. Bakgaga have got off to a fantastic start to the campaign and are unbeaten after seven matches and lead the Premiership standings with 15 points, two ahead of closest rivals Golden Arrows.
The Limpopo side scored what could possibly be their biggest win of the season at the weekend when they came from behind to beat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night.
Former Amakhosi striker Lewis Macha equalised for Bakgaga after George Maluleka had put the home side ahead and Gift Mothupa clinched the three points with a goal in the second half.
While Baroka have been riding the crest of a wave, many wonder if they can maintain the run. After all, Baroka had an excellent start to their first season in the Premiership, unbeaten in their first six matches in 2016/17, but then faded away badly and ended up only just surviving relegation.
“Maintaining? It is about what you have and I am sure that with what we have we can maintain our position,” said Thobejane, however.
“As long as our language remains the same because that is most important. What we are talking about is emphasis on attacking and not defending. If we can get this right, then we can maintain the position.
“But if we are creating 10 chances and only score one goal, that is not good at all and in order for us to maintain our position we have to score more goals,” said Thobejane.
He also praised former Chiefs assistant coach Doctor Khumalo’s contribution in the team and said they have developed an immediate understanding. Khumalo left Chiefs to take over as Baroka technical director.
“Doctor is my brother and we have a good understanding. Our relationship is perfect,” said Thobejane when asked about the influence of Khumalo.
Khumalo was, meanwhile, hounded by Amakhosi fans on Saturday, who pleaded with him to return to Naturena where things are not going well.