Moses “Pokker” Malatji is proving to be exactly the quality Tzaneen United need in a coach, bringing structure, confidence, and strong results since taking charge.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Tzaneen United may already be out of the league title race, with Mpheni Defenders having secured the championship, but their recent performances have left many wondering what could have been.
The way the team has been playing recently suggests a determined and confident side that, according to observers, could have challenged for the title all the way to the end had they shown this level of consistency earlier in the season.
Much of the praise has gone to coach Moses “Pokker” Malatji, who has now taken charge of the star-studded side from Maruleng after serving as the team’s assistant coach. Since stepping into the main role, the team’s structure, intensity, and attacking play have noticeably improved, with many saying he is proving to be fully “on top of his game.”
Supporters and football followers alike believe that if Malatji had been given the head coach role from the beginning of the season, Tzaneen United might have been in a much stronger position in the title race.
Their latest performance came in style, as they put on a commanding display to beat Mighty Phalaborwa United 3-1 on Saturday, dominating large parts of the match and showing real attacking flair.
With quality players across the squad, it has now become clear that Tzaneen United may need to carefully evaluate their coaching structure going forward if they are serious about pushing for promotion next season.
The last time the club showed similar dominance was when they topped the league log with only one defeat, before eventually falling short in the playoff final against then Stream A winners Mpheni Defenders.