AmaZulu co-coach Arthur Zwane has acknowledged that Bongani Zungu is still working on enhancing his fitness. However, due to limited time for proper match preparation, they have no choice but to include him in official matches.
Zungu netted the decisive goal, leading Usuthu to a 1-0 victory over Magesi at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium during the Betway Premiership on Saturday.
The 32-year-old, who signed with Usuthu in December after being a free agent following his exit from Mamelodi Sundowns at the end of last season, received a precise assist from Usuthu’s standout performer, Hendrick Ekstein, before skillfully placing the ball past Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze.
This victory propelled Usuthu into the top eight, amassing 16 points from 13 matches, tying them with Stellenbosch in seventh place; however, Steve Barker’s team still holds two games in hand.
“There’s no denying that Bongani is a talented player,” Zwane remarked.
“He offers a vast amount of experience and has played at the top level for an extended period.
“Our main goal is to support his growth since we recognize how important he will be for us moving forward. Unfortunately, it’s challenging to secure friendly matches to facilitate this development.
“We adhere to our protocols for returning to play, but due to the lack of friendly opportunities, we have to incorporate him into official matches.
“We encounter several hurdles, like unpredictable weather and occasionally waterlogged pitches. That’s why I commend the efforts our players have made to achieve these results; it has certainly not been an easy path.
“I am incredibly proud of them; we take immense pride in their commitment.”
This marked Zungu’s first league goal in nearly two years; his last was ironically against AmaZulu while he was with Sundowns in April 2023 at Princess Magogo Stadium, which resulted in a 2-2 draw.
As Usuthu secured the win over bottom-placed Magesi, a notable change occurred in their goalkeeping lineup, with Veli Mothwa replacing Richards Ofori.
Ofori, who had been the starting goalkeeper since his arrival at Usuthu in October, was substituted following Mothwa’s return, who last played in a 2-1 defeat to Polokwane City at the same venue in September, where he made a crucial error leading to the winning goal.
Zwane clarified that the rotation of goalkeepers is intended to foster healthy competition.
“Friendly matches are hard to find for us,” Zwane explained. “Considering Mothwa and Ofori, we are fortunate to have three excellent goalkeepers. Andile Mbanjwa is also a contender.
“Veli has been a part of the national team for many years and has performed exceptionally well for the club.
“Ofori has also shown great promise; he was sidelined due to injury but has made a strong return. The competition for that position is intense.
“We believe every player deserves an opportunity to play, and Veli has been diligent in training, maintaining a positive attitude despite not participating. We decided to give him a chance and see how it unfolds, ensuring all players remain competitive.”
Usuthu will take a short break, with their next match scheduled against Stellenbosch at King Zwelithini Stadium on January 21.
