Mthatha Bucks surprise with top spot

THERE is an unexpected candidate at the summit of the National First Division (NFD) soccer log following firstround matches by all 16 clubs in the league – Mthatha Bucks.

Bucks are on top thanks to a superior goal difference, although five other clubs are also on three points.

Thanks to a brace by Andile Njokweni and Mazwi Mncube, the Mthatha Bucks clobbered Stellenbosch FC by 3-1 at the weekend.

Bucks’ league position is in direct contrast to the position they occupied at the same stage NFD last season when they were in 14th place.

However, head coach Velile Dyaloyi said it was too early for them to brood on counting their chickens before they hatch.

Dyaloyi said Bucks were far from being what he wanted them to be and he considered their opening game as part of the preseason.

In fact, Dyaloyi said the campaign was a marathon and he did want thoughts about winning the league championship yet.

But after Bucks were relegation candidates for much of last season – their maiden in the NFD – being top of the table is a feat worth celebrating.

However, Dyaloyi said Bucks needed to focus now more than ever. “We cannot talk about winning the league just yet, having survived relegation by a small margin last season,” he said.

“What is paramount, is to take it a game at a time and be realistic.”

Despite the 3-1 drubbing of Stellenbosch being their second biggest win since ascending to the second tier, Dyaloyi insisted it was not the time to be excited with a long way to go in the 2016-17 season.

“It was the first game of the season and I am sure every other team want to see how others play,” he said.

On striker Andile Njokweni’s chilling brace, Dyaloyi said it was too early to sing the praises of individual players, but “I am happy for Njokweni and I hope he continues with his form”.