I’m happy to announce…
G’day
On season so far
I know I have been talking about the log standings and what is happening for a while now, but such is the competitive nature of this league that I have no choice. We just have to constantly keep an eye on it because it is very exciting. You look at the bottom half, from number 11 going down – no one is really safe. AmaZulu’s loss to Baroka FC changed the complexion of the standings because we thought it would be clear who would be going down automatically, with two other teams fighting to avoid the play-offs. It is so unbelievable! What’s so fascinating about this season is that, when you think the odds are against one team, they go on to turn the tables and deliver when least expected. Maritzburg United’s win away to Black Leopards revived their season, putting pressure on the teams above them. When we look at Maritzburg, they can get up to 29 points, Chippa United 30, Leopards 35 (if they beat Mamelodi Sundowns), Free State Stars 32, Baroka 34 and AmaZulu 36. The same Baroka that is only two points away from AmaZulu were third from bottom last week. They managed to leapfrog to 12th position and this makes it really interesting because we are not talking about big margins separating these teams. A win, even a draw, makes a big difference and that’s why no one is safe. Our game has really changed, big time, and it shows in the way most of our teams are playing. Then I ask myself a question, “Why do our teams always leave it so late to start playing?” Every game is like a cup final now and it is really good to watch because it is so unpredictable. No one can tell who is going to do what now. Highlands Park, although they can’t pop the champagne yet as they’re still fighting for a Top Eight spot, are definitely safe from any sort of danger. The importance of finishing in the Top Eight bracket makes it impossible for them to take things easy because there are financial rewards that come with finishing in that bracket. These kinds of performances from our teams and the level of competitiveness can only elevate our football to greater heights. It is also great that everyone has something to play for so that everyone is kept on their toes. If you’re not challenging for honours, there’s a Top Eight spot and relegation to battle. The Top Eight brings a perfect start to the season because it sets the tone and can get you into the final after just three games, including a two-legged semi-final. That’s the shortest route to the final and everyone would definitely want to be part of that competition. The title race is also interesting because Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have been at it. Assuming that both teams win their remaining games, they will be tied on 59 points with the goal difference determining the winner. Pirates have a five-goal advantage, before Sundowns visit Leopards.
On NFD
I must admit that, just like in the Absa Premiership, the National First Division has been very competitive this season. Stellenbosch FC were, at some point, clear favourites to win the title and automatic promotion to the elite league, but that lead has been cut to just two points with one game to go. Credit to coach Steve Barker for a tremendous job so far, but it isn’t done yet. Royal Eagles are breathing down their neck and it will be interesting to see who will take the league as the other top three teams will be involved in the play-offs with the 15th placed team on the Absa Premiership table. What is certain is that the winner of this league will be between Stellenbosch and Eagles, while the runner-up will join Ajax Cape Town and Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila who have already secured their play-off spots. We are in for some interesting times and whoever finishes 15th in the elite league will have their work cut out in the playoffs. No one wants to find themselves relegated but, unfortunately, someone has to go down. That’s what makes this game so exciting.
On new role
I’m happy to announce that I’m now involved with the Nedbank Ke Yona Team as the technical director, working together with head coach Khabo Zondo, Jerry Sikhosana and the entire technical team. We’ve been assigned to go around the country to scout for talent that will eventually play the winner of this year’s Nedbank Cup final between TS Galaxy and Kaizer Chiefs. We had our first trials in East London on Saturday, where we assessed almost 400 young hopefuls. I must say, it has been interesting to be involved in another talent search initiative in the country, after the Coca Cola talent search initiative. That’s where I was working with coach Steve Komphela and Clive Barker. I’m proud to say we unearthed quite a number of stars like Happy Jele, Andile Jali and Sibusiso Msomi, to mention just three. It feels really great to be in this position because I was also scouted and given an opportunity to realise my dreams, so you can imagine how it feels when you do the same thing to someone else. It brings a feeling of fulfilment and the talent we saw in East London was unbelievable. Unfortunately, not everyone will make it, but we will continue to monitor those who came close because players aren’t the same. Some need more time to adjust than others. It is only fair that they all get a fair chance. Our next stop will be Thohoyandou Stadium this Saturday. Please be on the lookout because we will be there to provide you with an opportunity to realise your dream.