MaZulu’s DEPUTY coach, Simo Dladla, mentioned the importance of the experience of the team’s players, Hendrick “Pule” Ekstein and Thabiso Kutumela, who scored goals when they defeated Richards Bay FC in the Betway Premiership match on Saturday.
Zulus beat Richards Bay 2-1 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban.
Kutumela and Ekstein’s goals ensured that AmaZulu collected three points, and continued to stay in the middle of the top five teams in the Premiership log.
“We had played five games (actually four) without winning, so it was important that we regain our dignity. We really needed these three points to regain our confidence, and continue the journey to achieve our season goal of finishing in the Top 4,” said Dladla.
“We have a team with many young players, so having experienced players like Ekstein helps the team. What he did in this game is what we expected from him as he has done in many other games that saved the team. You are very experienced and smart.
“In some places in the team we have experienced players like Kutumela, in place of Ngwenya (Thandolwenkosi) who is still serving a card sentence. Although we are pleased with his driving and showing growth, Ngwenya is still young, and he misses many opportunities to score goals. So the experience of Kutumela and Ekstein has helped the team, especially since we are still fighting the challenge of finishing the chances we create in front of the goals.”
Ekstein (35) who was selected as the best player in Saturday’s game, uwe have scored seven goals, he has contributed to four in the 25 games he has played this season in all competitions.
Kutumela, who is coming back from injury, scored his first goal this season which was a free kick. Usuthu will return to the field with an away match against Polokwane at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, on Saturday at 3.30pm.