NFD restored Monama’s passion
Stars signing fired up for fresh go in the elite league
Platinum Stars’ new signing Raymond Monama thinks playing in the National First Division (NFD) brought back his hunger for the game after torrid spells at Premiership clubs Mamelodi Sundowns and Polokwane City.
Last season Monama scored 11 goals for Royal Eagles in the NFD. On his return to the top flight with Dikwena, he feels playing in the second tier helped him a lot, citing that he was starting to lose his passion for football because of his previous failed stints in the elite league.
“Playing there [in the NFD] came at the right time because I was starting to despair. When things were not coming together at Sundowns and Polokwane my passion for football was starting to fade away.
“Scoring 11 goals did not only boost my passion but it also reignited my love for the game,” Monama told Sowetan yesterday.
“Things worked out very nice at Eagles. It was unfortunate that we did not manage to qualify for the play-offs but individually I had a fantastic season, which also paved the way to join Platinum Stars.”
The Seshego, Limpopo-born midfield maestro now aspires to help his new club finish in the top eight and at least reach one cup final, which he believes is possible under their mentor Roger de Sa.
“It would be a big achievement if we can finish in the top eight and play at least one cup final. We have a coach who has helped many clubs reach cup finals, which will be a bonus.
“Coach De Sa is an experienced coach who always wants the best out of his players,” said the former Black Leopards man.
The 28-year-old midfielder hopes to play a pivotal role in Stars’ midfield when they travel to King Zwelithini Stadium to face AmaZulu on Saturday (8.15pm).