Could it be time for the giant to wake up?
‘LAST SEASON WAS PROBABLY THE WORST’
THE SLEEPING giant that is Santos Football Club remains determined to recapture the glory days.
Having now fallen on bad times, since being relegated from the Premier Soccer League (PSL), the Lansdownebased club is struggling to return to the form and consistency that saw them win the top-flight league title in 2002.
Last season’s disappointing National First Division (NFD) campaign was a definite source of concern – and Santos are looking at making a concerted effort this season to restoring the respect that a club of their stature deserves.
Currently, the club is searching for a new head coach, with owner Goolam Allie still mulling over his options.
Already hard at work for pre-season training, under the watchful eye of assistantcoach Keith America – with last season’s head coach Farouk Abrahams seemingly not in the picture – Santos captain Tyren Arendse believes the experience gained by their younger brigade will be critical this season.
Santos have always had good juniors – but, as so many coaches have pointed out, the kids need time to adjust to the rigours of a league as cutthroat and competitive as the NFD. Development takes a backseat when promotion is so desperately sought-after.
Arendse, an influential member of the Santos squad that won the PSL title in 2002, knows what success tastes like – and the last few seasons of struggle has been tough for him.
And, not only that, as age catches up, he is feeling the physical effects as well. Arendse, who will be 35 in December, confirmed that the coming season would probably be his last.
“When we got relegated a few seasons ago, I said that I would dedicate my remaining years to helping Santos get back to the PSL,” said Arendse. “But, so far, it just hasn’t worked out. We’ve struggled, and last season was probably the worst.
“Our main problem previously was our away form, but, last season, we even dropped quite a few points at home as well. We will have to improve on that…
“The good thing, though, is that the youngsters in the squad have now had about three years playing at this level. By now they should be experienced enough to be able to handle things. If we play to the potential we have in the team, then this could be the season for us.
“For me, it’s about managing my body and the amount of game time. I don’t think I can play three or four games on the trot anymore… But I still have enough to contribute, to assist the club to achieve its objectives.”
Santos, currently being prepared by former Cape Town Spurs star America, have played a few friendlies too. They lost twice to neighbours Ajax Cape Town and, on Monday, drew 2-2 with Wits. The Students from Joburg are in Cape Town for a pre-season training camp.
Next week, Santos will also take on SuperSport United in a friendly, when the Pretoria club comes down to the Mother City to participate in the Cape Town Cup, which also features Ajax Cape Town and two overseas clubs in Portugal’s Sporting Lisbon and England’s Crystal Palace.
Arendse, while looking forward to the new season, is also already planning for the next phase of his football career.
“I’m definitely looking at moving into coaching,” he said. “I’ve already completed my Safa D and C coaching licences… I’m just waiting to see when the next B Licence course is available and I will complete that too. At the same time, I’m also studying business management, so I’m equipping myself for life after playing.”