By Sihle N. Sonto | 041Online
After clinching the Coastal Stream title for the second consecutive season, Sophakama Ladies FC are once again on the brink of greatness as they prepare to face Sinenkani Ladies FC, winners of the Inland Stream, in a decisive clash at Mthatha Stadium this Saturday.
Head coach Thandiwe “Pule” Mboniswa expressed satisfaction with her team’s preparations, praising the players’ hunger and determination in training sessions.
“The team is preparing well; the players are showing hunger at training, and our practice games are assisting us a lot,” she said.
Sinenkani Ladies have been lethal in front of goal this season, netting over 70 goals, but Coach Pule remains unfazed by their attacking power.
“It’s interesting because we are also a team that can score goals. The game won’t bore anyone, both teams will attack,” she smiled.
“My tactical approach is a secret, but it’s nothing new, my brother.”
Reflecting on last season’s experience, when Sophakama won the Eastern Cape title and advanced to the Hollywoodbets Super League playoffs, Mboniswa said the team learned valuable lessons about unity and perseverance.
“Last season we were the champs of the Eastern Cape. We learned that if you really want something, you fight for it as a team,” she said.
Sophakama’s impressive defensive record this season, conceding only four goals in 12 matches, has been a key factor in their success.
“I’ve been using the same defenders from last season, so they know each other’s strengths. That makes things easy at the back,” Mboniswa explained.
She also emphasized the importance of consistency and balancing experience with young talent.
“It’s very important to balance your team with new young bloods and prepare well as a team.”
With no injury concerns ahead of the match, morale in the camp is high.
“The spirit of the players is high, the mood is good, and we are focused,” said the coach.
“We have no injuries, and I’m praying we don’t get any.”
When asked about her message to the players ahead of the crucial encounter, Mboniswa shared a motivational reminder.
“Ndibaxelela ukuba inde indlela abayihambileyo, kukufuthi phambili. They must keep on believing, work together as usual, and do it for themselves because they deserve to be where they are.”
While fans may already be dreaming of another run at the Hollywoodbets Super League playoffs, Coach Pule insists her focus remains firmly on the upcoming decider.
“My brother, the focus is on Saturday’s game, that’s the only thing on my mind right now. We will talk about the playoffs when the time comes.”
For both the club and the community, this moment represents more than just football success.
“For the club, it’s a great achievement. It shows we are heading in the right direction, and our scouting team is doing a good job,” she said.
“The community is supportive, parents are supportive, and we really appreciate the love they give us.”
As Sophakama Ladies FC gear up for yet another shot at glory, all eyes will be on Mthatha Stadium to see if Coach Pule’s side can once again rise to the occasion and bring pride to the Coastal Stream.
Leave a Reply