31 October 2008

IN TOUCH WITH THE P.R.O

Without a slightest shadow of a doubt, our start in the new season has been a dream start any team in the world would wish for.

Collecting points at the beginning of the season is a priority in any league, so that in an event where the team hits a slump, which is common in football, at least you do have points in the bag. Remember that these are the points that count towards the end of the season, when you are either fighting to win the league, to be in the top eight or fighting relegation.

These early points matter to everyone. Also, by collecting points early, the team builds confidence in itself and can therefore deliver a better account of themselves as the season progresses.

Having said that though, it is a known fact that, consistency is what wins league championships. Nobody knows that better than our distinguished coach who has four league titles under his belt, with four different teams, an achievement yet to be equaled in South African Football. Based on that record, I am very confident that consistency will not be a problem for the Team of Choice this season.

It is for that reason that it is not necessary to panic after the defeat by Supersport United. About five of our regular players were not available for that game, for both injury and suspension reasons. The score really, was not a true reflection of the game, considering that we also created our own chances, and were denied by the woodwork in another instance. We will bounce back to our winning ways.

Quite a number of people have been asking me about the Supporters’ Club and the establishment of branches. These enquiries have been coming as far and wide as Newcastle. It is very encouraging to learn that people want to associate themselves with the Team of Choice, to give it the 12th player element that is so imperative in football. There is progress in that regard.

I first of all had to ensure that we follow a particular process in doing so. We first had to create a policy that would be the foundation and the basis of a creation of supporters’ clubs. A document to guide us through the activities of such structures. I am happy to say that we now have a policy. Obviously, the policy is dynamic, which means as we go along, input from the branches will continue to shape the policy.

Dates and venues for meetings for the establishment of branches will be announced. I appeal to all supporters to be patient as the process unfolds.

We are not going to rush things. We want to create solid structures through patient build ups.

We will be playing our first home game at home, against Lamontville Golden Arrows at Woodburn Stadium, on the 5th of November, 2008. I am saying that because we have played our two home games, against Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu, away from home.

We would like to apologize to our supporters for the situation that was beyond our control. Woodburn was not ready to be used at the time, and we all know that Harry Gwala is undergoing re- construction. This game being a derby, has a unique character, that all derbies have. It is going to be a difficult game, considering the way Arrows are playing, but The Team of Choice has the ability to upset Arrows, especially playing at home for the first time this season. We need to pack the stadium and intimidate them with the numbers.

Keep supporting the Team of Choice. Your team needs YOU!!!!!

Ziyasha eMphithi!!!

Brian “BZ” Zuma
PRO.