Mkhatshwa exits Galaxy
Sukazi wields the axe after one defeat; Malesela comes in.
It has taken Tim Sukazi just three games to wield the axe as TS Galaxy have become the first team in the National First Division to sack their coach. Vusi Mkhatshwa was relieved of his duties at the weekend after the side suffered their first defeat at the hands of Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila.
Under Mkhatshwa’s guidance, the Rockets had drawn two and lost one and the former players and coaches’ agent axed him. “The club takes the opportunity to thank Mr Mkhatshwa for his contribution during what was a tricky and critical period of the club’s entry into the professional ranks,” read a statement the club released on Sunday night.
As reported in our Mgosi section last week, former Chippa United coach Dan Malesela has taken over at the Rockets after signing a two-year deal.
“He is a great coach who needs no introduction,” said Sukazi of Malesela.
“He comes with a wealth of experience which will go a long way in taking our club to greater heights. As young as we are, we have become aware of the responsibility on our young shoulders. If carrying such a responsibility requires us to bring a coach of Dan Malesela’s calibre, then this is exactly what we have done.”
Malesela is no stranger to the NFD, having coached at Cape Town All Stars previously. All Stars sold their status to Sukazi at the end of last season and he changed the name to TS Galaxy.
Malesela will have two weeks to familiarise himself in this new environment before his first game which will be at home against Ubuntu Cape Town on September 16.
Sukazi said they have to ensure the crowds who attend their games get their money’s worth. The Rockets have been attracting impressive crowds at their home venue in KwaNdebele since the season started.
“As a club we represent communities and supporters who are very passionate about the game and they want nothing short of success. This was clearly illustrated to us by the capacity crowds at Kameelrivier Stadium in our first two home matches.
“Our home matches were the most attended in the league and we have no choice but to maintain that.
“When our people come out in such numbers to show their love and support for our club the message becomes very clear and we need not be told anything much further than that.
“The appointment of coach Dan is just one way of us delivering our people’s dream of many years,” he said.