Thlothlokwe Golden Syrup manager Thabo Moremi.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Thabo Moremi, the manager of Thlothlokwe Golden Syrup, is optimistic that his team will avoid relegation this season.
His confidence comes despite the club’s challenging start in the ABC Motsepe League, where they have lost eight and drawn only two of their ten matches to date, currently placing them at the bottom of the league table with just two points.
Moremi explained that the team has undergone significant changes, acquiring several experienced players. “I believe we are now in a stronger position in terms of player quality. We have bolstered the team with new faces, combining experience with newcomers. We retained only four players from the previous squad,” he stated.
These changes followed the appointment of new coach Moses “Pokker” Malatji, who took over from Earnest Mamanyoha, the coach responsible for the club’s promotion last season. Under the new coach, the club has struggled, enduring defeats with scores of 3-0 against Black Leopards in Polokwane, 2-0 against Musina, and another 2-0 loss to Winnerspark. Their only positive result was a draw at home against the formidable Mpheni Defenders.
In their recent match against Winnerspark, Syrup dominated possession but failed to convert their chances into goals. The new players, most of whom recently joined the team, showed significant potential and are beginning to form a cohesive unit ready to fight back.
This weekend, they are set to face fellow newcomers Selwane White Vultures at home in what promises to be an exciting match. Syrup has played most of their games away from home, and they hope to turn their fortunes around in the second round of the league, especially at their new home venue, Mamanyoha Stadium, where they have only lost once and drawn once.