TIRED of being the bridesmaid, Thanda Royal Zulu FC are determined this year will see them promoted to the Premier Soccer League.
This after four consecutive years of narrowly missing automatic promotion from the National First Division.
Last season was especially bitter, as they led the title chase with just a few games to go.
Loss of coach Thami Ngubane ended a 16 match unbeaten streak and saw valuable points lost to inferior opposition at the final countdown.
I for one am convinced that some players did not give of their best in the latter stages, and may well have sabotaged Thanda’s ambitions.
But the great news for club and fans alike is that Ngubane is back, and if Amabhubesi’s terrific showing against KZN’s top clubs in the recent President’s Cup is anything to go by, he already has lifted confidence, tactics and skill levels.
Belief
Despite major changes in personnel, Thanda will start full of belief they can overcome the promotion hoodoo this time out, despite losing captain Diamond Thopola and top NFD striker Ace Bhengu.
No fewer than 17 new players have been signed, most of them local boys who will relish the opportunity for top flight football – and 10 of the squad are still Under 23 and full of energy.
Thanda start their campaign away to league newcomers Mbombela United on Saturday before taking on the mighty Amazulu at home on 29 August.
Personnel
Coaching staff has also been bolstered by the hiring of goalkeeper coach Mcedisi Ncala from Maritzburg City.
He was ‘keeper for Amazulu (2006-2009), Golden Arrows (2005) and Maritzburg City (1999-2005).
Jeffry Fakude is now Acting Team Manager and Sifiso Biyela is Chief Operations Officer, while Nomvula Zungu heads the Admin department, Sihle Dladla is Supporters Co-Ordinator and Zodwa Ndaba is responsible for Media Liason.
Player movements
Incoming – Errol Ngema, Lindokuhle Holideyi, Mzwandile Banda, Xolani Mpotshane, Khayelihle Langa, Siyabonga Bhengu, Meketsi Ralekoane, Phumlani Mhamha, Mncedisi Ndwandwe, Sibongiseni Zuma, Mfundo Nsele, Nhlakanipho Mkhwanazi, Sakhile Kubheka, Steven Ncanana, Nzuzo Luthuli
Outgoing – Ace Bhengu (SuperSport), Diamond Thopola (Chippa United), Robert Modiadie, Brian Mashishi, Patric Ngidi, Mazwi Mncube (Royal Eagles ), Junior Sekete (Royal Eagles), Velile Zitha (Golden Arrows), Eden Nene (Royal Eagles ), Siyanda Khumalo, Ayanda Mbhatha, Jabulani Ncobeni (Golden Arrows), Sihle Myeza, Sherwin Smith, Motumi Moferefere.
