Zwane Applauds Zungu Despite Fitness Issues

AmaZulu co-coach Arthur Zwane recognizes that Bongani Zungu is still concentrating on enhancing his fitness. However, due to limited time for sufficient match readiness, they have no choice but to deploy him in official matches.

Zungu netted the decisive goal as Usuthu secured a 1-0 victory over Magesi at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium during the Betway Premiership clash on Saturday.

The 32-year-old, who signed with Usuthu in December after being a free agent post his exit from Mamelodi Sundowns at the conclusion of the last season, received a well-placed pass from Usuthu’s standout player, Hendrick Ekstein, and skillfully directed the ball past Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze.

This victory pushed Usuthu into the top eight, accumulating 16 points from 13 matches, equal with Stellenbosch in seventh position, though Steve Barker’s side still has two matches in hand.

“There’s no doubt that Bongani is a talented player,” Zwane remarked.

“He brings a vast amount of experience and has played at the highest levels for an extended period.

“Our focus is on aiding his development as we know he will play a crucial role for us moving forward. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find friendly matches to support this development.

“We also adhere to our return-to-play protocols, but due to the shortage of friendly matches, we are obliged to incorporate him into official contests.

“We encounter various challenges, including unpredictable weather and occasionally soggy fields. This is why I commend the efforts our players have made to achieve these outcomes; it has not been an easy path.

“I am incredibly proud of them; we take great pride in their commitment.”

This marked Zungu’s first league goal in nearly two years, the last being ironically scored against AmaZulu while he was with Sundowns in April 2023 at Princess Magogo Stadium, ending in a 2-2 draw.

As Usuthu achieved victory over the last-placed Magesi, a notable alteration was observed in their goalkeeping roster, with Veli Mothwa stepping in for Richards Ofori.

Ofori, who had been the first-choice goalkeeper since joining Usuthu in October, was substituted following Mothwa’s return, who last appeared in a 2-1 defeat to Polokwane City at the same stadium in September, where he made a crucial error that led to the winning goal.

Zwane clarified that the rotation in goalkeepers is intended to foster healthy competition among them.

“Friendly matches are hard to come by for us,” Zwane noted. “Considering Mothwa and Ofori, we are lucky to have three excellent goalkeepers. Andile Mbanjwa is also in the mix.

“Veli has been part of the national setup for many years and has performed admirably for the club.

“Ofori has also been impressive; he was sidelined due to injury but returned strong. The competition for that position is intense.

“We believe every player deserves a chance to showcase their ability, and Veli has been putting in the work during training, staying positive despite not seeing game time. We decided to give him a shot and see how it unfolds, ensuring all players remain competitive.”

Usuthu will take a short break, with their next fixture set against Stellenbosch at King Zwelithini Stadium on January 21.

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