Compliments don’t sit well with Mahashe

When Mzwanele Mahashe gets complimented for the good performances he gives in Baroka FC’s matches, he is hurt because he feels he can’t celebrate individual glory when the team have not done well collectively having walked a tightrope and flirting with relegation all season long.

Baroka finished 15th in their maiden Absa Premiership season and are now involved in a heated promotion play-off mini-league with Limpopo rivals Black Leopards and Stellenbosch FC from the Western Cape.

“Even though the people who compliment me mean well, it’s very hard for me because it’s not easy to celebrate because the team has not done well. I am a team player and I always put the team first. Whenever someone compliments me I feel pain.

“I will only look at individual praise when we have saved the team from relegation,” said the 29-year-old East London-born defender.

For Bakgaga to avoid going back to the National First Division next season they have to beat Lidoda Duvha today at the Peter Mokaba Stadium – the match is set for a 3pm kick-off.

“Our preparations have been on point. Everyone is eager and ready. It’s a Limpopo derby and it won’t be easy but we have to fight.

“We all know the game is the decider for us. It’s very important we collect all three points. We have to win our two home games if we are to come out of this situation smiling,” he said.