FC Rellen coach Shakes Manyakalle is back with the team.
By: Refilwe Sebola
FC Rellen’s head coach, Shakes Manyakalle, has returned to the team. The former Winnerspark mentor, who joined FC Rellen at the start of last season, was unable to return in January when the league resumed.
During his absence, the team lost valuable ground, dropping four points. They suffered a 3-2 defeat to second-placed Ramaroka Super Aces and a 0-0 draw against K n T at home.
Before his departure, the team was performing exceptionally well, winning their early matches comfortably. They secured a 3-1 victory over Mamaila Happy Stars, a 4-0 win against Pipa Young Stars, and another 4-0 triumph over Matsena Giant Killers.
Since Manyakalle’s return, his impact has been evident, as he led the team back to the top of the table, winning four matches and drawing one. The results include a 2-0 win over Sekgopo Happy Boys, a 2-1 victory against Black Antelope, a goalless draw with Sekgosese, a 2-0 walkover against Black Angus, and a 2-1 win over Mamaila Happy Stars last weekend.
They are now at the top of the table, just one point ahead of second-placed Ramaroka Super Aces.
However, Manyakalle expressed his dissatisfaction with the condition of the players upon his return. “I found that the players were rusty when I came back, which is why we drew against Happy Boys and dropped two points unnecessarily. But I have worked with them, and they are improving. Our aim is to stay on top for the rest of the season,” he said.
This weekend, the team will travel to Maphalle village for a challenging match against the rejuvenated Pipa Young Stars, a team they previously defeated 4-0 at home in Senwamokgope during the first round.
Pipa, currently third on the table with a game in hand, has shown significant improvement since their last encounter and will be seeking revenge. The game starts at 15h30.