WEDSON Nyirenda’s job with Baroka FC is on the line unless results improve.
This was the warning by Bakgaga CEO Morgan Mammila to their coach on Saturday after his assistant Motsimela Thoka booted Tshwane giants Mamelodi Sundowns from the Telkom Knockout.
Thoka proved his worth as coach when he guided Bakgaga to a 2-0 win over the Brazilians in the quarterfinal in the absence of under-pressure Nyirenda, who went home to prepare for his mother’s funeral.
Mduduzi Mdantsane scored the opener, while Downs goalkeeper Reyaad Pieterse scored an own goal.
Baroka have been struggling in the league and Mammila insists that heads will roll if the situation doesn’t improve.
They have played 11 matches in their league campaign so far, winning only one. They are second bottom with seven points, only four ahead of bottom side AmaZulu, who have two games in hand.
“If the results in the league don’t start coming we will act – that is football,” said Mammila .
“But we are not the only team on seven points in the league table. If the results are not coming, why hold on to him?”
Their supporters have voiced concern after the team went nine consecutive league games without a win. They started doubting whether the former Kaizer Chiefs striker is indeed the right man to lead the team.
The former Zambian national team coach is expected back in the country today to start coaching his team after being away for a week.
Meanwhile, Thoka was pleased with his charges’s performance in their win over Pitso Mosimane’s side.
“The game was good,” said Thoka.
“We are proud of the boys. They fought hard and deserve all the credit. They were not overawed by Sundowns. We are now in the semifinal and I am sure we will reach the final. All we have to do now is improve our form in the league.”
Regarding his first experience leading a top flight side, Thoka said: “It was a great feeling and I am happy. But credit to the players and technical team I worked with, as well as management.
“I am still young and learning. It has been a huge life experience to play against a successful coach like Pitso Mosimane.”
