041Sport columnist Sihle N Sonto takes us inside the world of Old Grey FC with an exclusive interview featuring team captain Xolisa Sifunda. As the squad prepares for the next big challenge, Sifunda shares insights on their journey, leadership, and the road ahead.
Old Grey FC Captain Xolisa Sifunda on Team Success, Leadership, and the Road Ahead
041Sport columnist Sihle N Sonto takes us inside the world of Old Grey FC with an exclusive interview featuring team captain Xolisa Sifunda. As the squad prepares for the next big challenge, Sifunda shares insights on their journey, leadership, and the road ahead.
Securing Stream A: A Testament to Hard Work
Old Grey FC’s captain, Xolisa Sifunda, has been instrumental in leading the team to secure their place in Stream A of the Hollywoodbets Regional League. With two games left, the team’s dedication has paid off, but Sifunda remains focused on the bigger picture ahead.
“Dankie bhuti iyabulela ilali… it’s a great feeling knowing all the team’s hard work and dedication paid off, but we are not done yet. We still have a big game coming up,” he said. While securing a spot in Stream A is a major achievement, the team remains determined to finish strong.
Bouncing Back After Provincial Playoffs
Old Grey FC faced challenges last season, particularly in the provincial playoffs, but Sifunda highlights the team’s resilience.
“Last season we started well and stayed in that position from the first game till the end. Same as this season. Once you’re at the top, you gain confidence,” he explained. Both individual performances and collective teamwork have been key to their success.
Facing Major Chiefs FC or Real Celtics FC in the Decider
With a crucial decider ahead, Old Grey FC is preparing for a tough opponent—either Major Chiefs FC or Real Celtics FC.
“As a team, we’re looking forward to facing whoever we will face. It doesn’t matter who we’ll play, we’ll just play our normal game, work harder for each other, and aim for victory,” Sifunda stated.
Preparing for the Challenge Ahead
Both potential opponents are formidable, but Old Grey FC has a clear plan in place.
“We take every game seriously, one game at a time. We have a good technical staff who can plan for each and every game. The planning is there, and we are preparing for whoever we face next,” he explained.
Leadership and Motivating the Team
As captain, Sifunda takes his leadership role seriously, ensuring his team remains motivated.
“It’s the work rate that I’m giving in each and every game whenever I’m given the chance to play as captain. It’s all about leading, giving our youngsters confidence, and uplifting them to do more,” he said.
Credit to the Youngsters
Sifunda acknowledges the vital role younger players have played in the team’s success.
“I must give credit to all the youngsters under 21 in our squad. They are the ones who keep us going because they get the opportunity to start every game. They push and compete, so credit goes to them,” he shared.
He also highlighted the experience of senior players: “The individual brilliance from the big boys always comes into play.”
Building Momentum for the Provincial Playoffs
Sifunda understands the importance of keeping momentum going.
“It’s important that we win all our remaining games. That builds confidence, knowing that we won most games. We need to win as many as we can so that when the playoffs come, we have the winning mentality,” he said.
Goals for the Provincial Playoffs
If Old Grey FC progresses, Sifunda’s vision is clear.
“I’d be so happy knowing that we’ll be competing at the next level. Simple: we need to progress in the playoffs. Old Grey FC is a big brand, and the doors will open for young, upcoming footballers,” he explained.
A Message to Fans and Supporters
As the season reaches a critical stage, Sifunda had a special message for Old Grey FC’s supporters.
“We’ve got a handful of support, starting with our chairman, who loves the club and the game, and every individual. To the people who come and support us during our games, keep it up. We will make you proud. We are a united brand, just like our supporters,” he said.
With Sifunda at the helm, Old Grey FC is poised for a strong finish to the season and a promising future. Their unity, hard work, and determination will be key as they push for greater achievements in the provincial playoffs.
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