JUST when you thought Kgoloko Thobejane was misquoted or maybe that it was just a moment of arrogance when he prematurely declared Baroka FC the 2016-17 PSL champions in June this year – he just REPEATED it yesterday.
“The PSL trophy belongs to us,” Thobejane said yesterday ahead of their much-anticipated clash with Ajax Cape Town at Polokwane’s Peter Mokaba Stadium tonight (7.30pm).
“We are ready and Ajax will give us our first taste of maximum points in the PSL, something we expect to experience again and again this season. You can put it in your diary – we will win almost all our home matches.”
Even Ajax coach Roger de Sa had pointed out last week that it was “the worst possible start” for any team to open their season against Baroka FC.
When Thobejane was asked how it felt to finally realise his dream of playing in the PSL, the coach replied: “I couldn’t wait any longer! It is important to note that we are not fighting for survival or a top eight position like other clubs, we need the championship.”
He expressed relief that the Richard Matloga matter had been resolved with Highlands Park after the case went to the PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber.
“He has been training with us and is one of the most talented players any coach can dream of. He is so important, just like Tshepo Matete,” Thobejane said.
Highlands Park and Baroka reached an out-of-court settlement last week that saw the 25-yer-old Matloga officially sold to the Ga-Mphahlele outfit after weeks of dispute.
Highlands boss Sinky Mnisi told SunSport last week that Baroka officials had asked for an out-of-court settlement and they obliged, providing the team with an asking price, which they paid.
“Mnisi gave us Matloga’s clearance and he is now registered as our player,” said Thobejane.
The coach added that despite their confidence, the nerves had started kicking in as their date with destiny draws nearer.
- Meanwhile, Cape Town City FC, who will host Polokwane City at the Cape Town Stadium tonight, revealed in a statement yesterday that they would allow city employees free entry to the match.
This initiative is “in collaboration with the City of Cape Town Municipality”.
The statement reads: “‘A Team for the City’ is not just a catchy slogan.
“Cape Town City FC are dedicated to empowering and honouring all of our diverse communities that make our city what it is.”
