Magesi FC, the dark horse of the Betway Premiership, has defied all odds. Coach Clinton Larsen’s strategic brilliance has propelled the team to unexpected heights, including a historic Carling Knockout Cup triumph.
As the season unfolds, questions linger about the limited opportunities for experienced players like Sekgota and Motupa. Larsen’s candid explanation provides a glimpse into the complex dynamics within the Magesi squad.
“Gift is at the club. He is training. Unfortunately, in the position he is playing in, Wonderboy Makhubu is excelling. So, it’s difficult for Gift to get into the team with the presence and form of Wonderboy at the moment,” Larsen told Soccer Laduma.
He emphasized that selection is based purely on current form, stating, “He has to work hard, wait for his time, and grab it. We have seven strikers in the team. We have a big striking force and I’ve always said that I don’t pick names.
“I pick players on form and at the moment the other strikers are ahead of him in the pecking order.”
Similarly, Sekgota faces stiff competition. “Sekgota is fighting with the likes of (Edmore) Chirambadare, with (Tshepo) Mashigo and the other players doing exceptionally well on the wings.
“The same applies to him. Even though he started (the match), it’s been the same case for him,” Larsen noted, highlighting the depth and quality within his squad.
In their first ten matches, Magesi have faced off against the PSL’s top dogs, Chiefs, Pirates, and Sundowns, and remarkably, Larsen has kept his record clean, remaining unbeaten against these heavyweights.
This performance underlines the tactical acumen and squad selection strategy that Larsen has employed, focusing on players who are currently in top form rather than banking on past reputations.
Looking ahead, Magesi are set to test their mettle once more as they prepare to host Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership on December 29 at Peter Mokaba Stadium, where Larsen’s strategic selections will once again be under scrutiny.