26 April 2018 – Established a mere three years ago, Greytown based Umvoti Football Club can be proud of what they have accomplished.
The Kwa-Zulu Natal stream of the ABC Motsepe League is deemed to be one of the more challenging hence by topping in the province the club can be proud of their achievement.
However, there are still the all-important national play-offs looming and the job is not complete.
With a possible National First Division (NFD) spot on offer, MySAFA caught up with club chairman Mr Bonginhlanhla Gwala as he offered some insight into the successful season, challenges faced, play-offs and long-term goals.
“I think we have had a very good season overall. We were well prepared throughout and did our homework for each and every game. Our players were focused and we have an astute coach in Bheka Phakathi, whose experience came in very handy”, said Gwala.
The club have come a long way in a short space of time as Gwala added: “In our first season we finished in third position and then were runners-up last year. This year we were determined to go all the way and we have accomplished that goal by being crowned league champions.”
Touching on the challenges faced by the team, the chairman stated: “The main issue we had was holding on to our players. I feel we managed to do this admirably and it paid off. We showed faith, believed in them and the results speak for themselves.”
Gwala also offered a few thoughts on the upcoming play-offs in June. “We are training hard and I believe that we are well prepared. Our coach expects nothing less from the players and we are positive that we will be an NFD team come next season”, he stated.
When asked about the club’s future ambitions, the chairman was forthright in stating that: “Our short-term goal is the NFD and thereafter we wish to be a PSL team. That will be a fantastic achievement in itself!”
Umvoti product Mondli Dladla was recently selected for the National U20 squad thus proving what a great footballing culture is being instilled within the club, who seem destined for greener pastures.