Siwelele FC’s recent struggles were on full display after a 1-0 home defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership at Toyota Stadium last Tuesday.
However, coach Lehlohonolo Seema remains hopeful that he will be able to change the fortunes of the team.
The club, which entered the top flight this season after acquiring SuperSport United’s status, promised to reignite football passion in Mangaung following Bloemfontein Celtic’s demise.
Yet cracks are already visible. Administrative issues have compounded on-field struggles, raising questions about the club’s stability.
Chairman Calvin Le John recently revealed cost-cutting measures, including long bus trips for matches under 600 km, and confirmed the departures of chief executive Stan Matthews and assistant coach Andre Arendse.
Siwelele also suffered an embarrassing setback when a deadline-day loan deal for Mamelodi Sundowns defender Keagan Johannes collapsed because Siwelele had already reached its loan quota.
Results have mirrored the turmoil. Siwelele have lost six matches, won only the season opener, and drawn once. Their defeat to a strong Pirates side at Toyota Stadium highlighted the challenges still facing the team.
Despite the setbacks, Seema remained upbeat and called on supporters to rally behind the team ahead of the Mangaung derby against Marumo Gallants at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Saturday.
“It hasn’t been easy, and losing is tough. But the support from our fans keeps us going. On Saturday, I’m telling supporters to come in numbers – they’ll witness our second win of the season. Our team is ready to fight, and after 90 minutes, we aim to be the winners,” said Seema.
The Free State-based club find itself sitting at the bottom of the league standings with only four points from eight matches.