Baroka interim coach Amukelani “JayJay” Hlongwani.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Baroka interim coach, Amukelani “JayJay” Hlongwani, successfully led the Lebowakgomo based team to their inaugural victory of the season in a National First Division (NFD) match against Hungry Lion at Suzuki Stadium in Kimberly last Saturday.
This triumph followed a challenging start to the season, with the team drawing 1-1 in their initial match against Orbit College and subsequently enduring a 4-1 defeat in the following game against Upington City under the guidance of coach Morgan Mammila.
Hlongwani, who previously served as the assistant coach to both Dan Malesela and Mammila, steered the team to a narrow 1-0 win, securing three crucial points. Presently, the team occupies the twelfth position with four points, trailing five teams based solely on goal difference.
Baroka chairperson Khurishi Mphahlele expressed enthusiasm about the outcome and clarified that Hlongwani is serving as the interim coach until a new coach is appointed. However, “Bakgaga ba ga Mphahlele” has a history of promoting their assistant coaches to the head coaching position based on their performance. Therefore, it would not be surprising if “JayJay” is appointed head coach.
Baroka is scheduled to compete against Kruger United at the Global Stadium in Lebowakgomo this Saturday.