Mokoatedi turns a new soccer leaf
The rise and rise of prolific goal poacher, Edward Mokoatedi, is one of the unqualified success stories that makes domestic football so exhilarating.
LIMPOPO – The young man who made such a positive impact at Limpopo Sports School is now making a name for himself as part of the Baroka FC team which is campaigning in the South African Football Association (SAFA) South African Breweries (SAB) Regional League.
Mokoatedi caught the eye of Baroka FC Chairperson, Khurishi Mphahlele, during the recent festive season tournament while anchoring both the right and left wings for the excellence side.
There is one match that really left Mphahlele with no choice but to make contact with this amazing talisman.
Mokoatedi remembers vividly that: “It was just after the final whistle in a league game which we played against Baroka in the regional league. I had an impressive run on that day and Mphahlele told my coach that he wanted to assess me.
“I was subsequently called for the trials at which I did not disappoint. I put in a lot of effort during the trails from the first day until I was given the nod. I passed the assessment test though I was in severe pain following an ankle injury”.
Speaking of the injury that almost cut short his blossoming career, Mokoatedi said: “I was anxious that my career would be finished before I could even make my mark in top flight football. It was like my dream was going up in smoke. However, I persevered and now it seems that perseverance is paying off”.
Mokoatedi is indispensable to both the right and left wing positions upfront and scores goals with remarkable flourish.
Although there are lots of combinations and coincidences in Mokoatedi’s game, there are also contradictions – he is not brawny yet he is brainy while he combines both bravado and bravura.
Speaking of his move to Baroka, he said: “I am well settled at the team. I can see that my dream of becoming a professional footballer is now within my reach. However, this will required hard work, dedication, commitment and focus. I intend to do so to please the club management, the technical staff and the people rallying behind my dream. I will face whatever obstacle comes my way and pass the test with flying colours”.
