Rulani Mokwena, the Head Coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, refused to beat his own drum after his team won the Carling Black Label Cup for the first-time last weekend in Johannesburg.
Sundowns won the Carling Black Label one-day tournament at FNB Stadium after defeating AmaZulu 3-0 in the first game and Orlando Pirates 4-0 in the finals. Sundowns winning is not surprising in South African football, but what is significant is that it is Mokwena’s first trophy since last month.
Sundowns’ goals came from Sphelele Mkhulise, Grant Kekana, and Cassius Mailula, who has been a problem in DStv Premiership games after being given the opportunity to play by his coaches.
Mokwena’s team went to the Carling Black Label Cup hurt after failing to defend the MTN8 trophy, which they lost 3-0 to Pirates in Polokwane.
“Let me congratulate the entire team, especially the players who have done a good job. I consider myself fortunate to be their coach,” said Mokwena, who was recently excited at the FNB Stadium.
“Let me congratulate the entire team and the Motsepe family; today’s victory was well deserved after the MTN8 disappointment.
“We needed to win to please our fans. I congratulate the team and coaches once more, but I am especially grateful to the players we have,” said Mokwena who took over from Manqoba Mngqithi, who was demoted earlier this month.
In addition to playing Mailula from the Sundowns team that plays in the Diski Challenge, Mokwena played eighteen-year-old Ntando Nkosi, who also played in the Diski Challenge.
“Because I was given the opportunity to coach at a young age, it is my responsibility to give young players opportunities to play.
“Despite the fact that we are a team that always plays to win, I am not afraid to give other people chances because it was done to me. We have to win and try to build the team’s future on the other side,” Mokwena stated.
Sundowns have won four games and scored fifteen goals under Mokwena’s leadership.
Ubomi ejele kutata owadlwengula unyana wakhe ona-8