Team to honour their slain boss
PROMISE: CLUB’S AIM IS TO FIGHT FOR PREMIERSHIP SPOT
Sibongiseni Gumbi
Losing their chairman, who had been the pillar of the team, has inspired Uthongathi FC players to fight for promotion to keep the promise they made to Nicholas Mkhize before his fatal shooting earlier this month.
The Cane Cutters defender Ntwenhle Zondo said Mkhize’s death had dealt them a heavy blow but they have accepted what happened and will now focus on taking the unfancied side into the Absa Premiership.
“This is our second season in the NFD (National First Division) and we had a talk with the chairman where he challenged us to go all the way to the top. It was tough to accept his death and the guys – especially those who have been with the team since its inception – were hard hit. But we now have to honour him by winning the league and getting the team promoted,” said the 23-year-old who is on loan from Chippa United.
The Cane Cutters have started well and top the table going into this weekend’s fixtures with 11 points from five games. The charge has been led by striker Siyabonga Vilane who has scored six goals so far.
“One of the problems we had last season was that we didn’t convert our chances and for Siya to find form so early is good for us. He has inspired everyone to work even harder and ensure they provide productive input,” he said.
Uthongathi will meet fellow KwaZulu-Natal-based campaigners Royal Eagles at Chatsworth Stadium this afternoon in what Zondo sees as a tough test.
“We are not focusing on them. We are looking at ourselves and we are taking baby steps. We have to focus on our team and look to improve with each game.
“What matters to us is what we can do and we don’t worry about opponents that much. We are ready for anything they can throw at us,” said Zondo.