New Tzaneen United coach Oruel Sambo.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Tzaneen United owner Dennus Mafologela has expressed confidence in new head coach Oruel Sambo and pledged to work alongside him as the club looks to improve its results in the ABC Motsepe League.
Sambo was appointed as head coach following the departure of Ludwick Tshamano Raselaya, who left the club after a run of inconsistent results.
Raselaya had managed just one victory and suffered two defeats during his spell in charge, with Sambo serving as his assistant before stepping into the top job.
The new coach made his first appearance in charge last Saturday when Tzaneen United played out a goalless draw against local rivals Nkowankowa Continental at Nkowankowa Stadium.
Mafologela has now committed his support to Sambo, insisting that he is prepared to work closely with the coach as they seek to turn the team’s fortunes around.
The club owner pointed to Mpheni Defenders owner Sydney Phuravhathu as an example of an owner who also works alongside the technical team.
“I will work with the coach. There is nothing wrong with that. Mpheni owner is also coaching with the coaches,” Mafologela said.
However, Mafologela has faced criticism from some football supporters and coaches over allegations of interfering in the coach’s responsibilities.
His commitment to working with Sambo is therefore likely to attract attention, particularly as Tzaneen United seek to climb the league standings.
Tzaneen United currently occupy eighth position with four points, having lost two matches so far.
They will host Musina United in Sekororo this week, providing Sambo with another opportunity to secure his first victory since taking over as head coach.
It remains to be seen whether Mafologela will be on the bench alongside the technical team for the upcoming fixture.