Sibongiseni Mthethwa of Kaizer Chiefs attributes the team’s early-season success to discipline and commitment.
Mthethwa was instrumental in Amakhosi’s goalless draw against the defending champions on Wednesday at a sold-out FNB Stadium. The draw saw Chiefs stretch their unbeaten run and keep four clean sheets this season.
The defensive midfielder disrupted Downs’ attacks, winning vital possessions in the final third and limiting them to just two shots on target.
In his Man of the Match recipient speech, Mthethwa credited the performance of the whole team on the pitch and added that they have been working hard even when times were tough.
“I am grateful [for the award], this is a testament to the hard work that I have been putting as well as the team, even in tough times, we continue to work hard. I cannot only give praise to myself, but to the unity of the team makes me to shine and be recognised as a good performer. As I was not playing alone, credit must be given to the whole team,” he said to SABC Sport.
Chiefs have made ten new signings during this transfer window, with Thabiso Monyane and Siphesihle Ndlovu having already played several matches for the Glamour Boys. Another recruit, Paseka Mako, made his full match debut on Wednesday.
Mako delivered a solid performance in the absence of regular left-back Bradley Cross and new signing Nkanyiso Shinga, who are said to have caught flu. Mthethwa stressed the importance of unity for the team to play as one.
“One of the most important things, and what we always promote, is brotherhood and unity. To work together always and all the time, which means I understand how Thabiso [Monyane] plays; whenever he overlaps, I cover for him. Whenever Paseka [Mako] overlaps, I cover. If Zitha [Kwinika] is out of position, I cover.
“The new guys were warmly welcomed and managed to ensure that they quickly adapted. These results are not magic, but what we have been working hard to achieve,” he concluded.
The 30-year-old was reportedly not in the plans of coach Nasreddine Nabi when he joined last season, but ended up becoming a pillar of the Chiefs’ midfield mid-season, making 18 appearances across all competitions.
He has been featured in all four opening games this season and is tipped to be featured when Chiefs visit Lamontville Golden Arrows on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.