Hawks suffer yet another league loss as Kaalfonia FC defeats them
Hawks FC coach Michael Madolo emphasised the condition of the Rabie Ridge pitch, as it was very bumpy and could lead to injuries to players.
The Hawks FC have recently suffered their second loss in the Midrand Local Football Association [MLFA] league, this time in a game against Kaalfonia FC on November 5.
Despite this outcome, Hawks coach, Michael Madolo, took the opportunity to give recognition to some of his players who have shown great skill and dedication in the first few games of the season.
In their first league match against Midrand United, The Hawks lost 2-0 due to some clumsy mistakes at the back.
Looking to redeem themselves, they faced Kaalfonia at Rabie Ridge stadium, but unfortunately, the defensive errors continued, leading to another defeat, this time 1-0 from a similar mistake.
Madolo pointed out that the absence of their set-piece specialist and central attacking midfielder, Prince ‘Neymar’ Mosehla, who was out due to school exams, was felt in the game.
“We surely missed Prince who is out due to [school] exams happening and we conceded a clumsy goal due to confusion between the keeper and defence. The goalkeeper [Peaceful Khoza] will gain his confidence back in due time,” Madolo explained.
The 15-year-old midfield maestro from Ivory Park Secondary School is a very important player in the club, as he gives the team dimension, has a good first touch and technique, and can shoot.
According to Madolo, he only needs to improve his marking, “So he is an essential player for the team this season.”
The coach highlighted how Neymar’s absence impacted their play, as they also couldn’t capitalise on death-ball situations.
“Neymar is a massively talented and dedicated player, always the first to arrive at training. He is often seen taking long-range shots, wanting the ball by himself, and even wanting to kick the ball during team talks, which I admire greatly.”
A well-executed set piece can lift a struggling team into the game, and coach Madolo understands that having Neymar in his 2023/24 squad can make a significant impact on their ability to score.
“On the other hand, a team that is dominating the game can be brought down by conceding a goal from a set-piece. Therefore, it’s crucial for players to master set pieces, whether it’s marking them or converting them.”
“Furthermore, I was thoroughly impressed by the performance of the young players, particularly Maqhawe Sibiya, who played exceptionally well at right back in the first two games.
Additionally, Madolo emphasised the condition of the Rabie Ridge pitch, as it was very bumpy and could lead to injuries.
The MLFA chairperson, Sthembiso Buthelezi, confirmed that the pitch is in bad condition due to frequent use with all the tournaments taking place week-in-week-out.
“We are trying to get topsoil for the pitch and leave it for the festive season as we plan to have a league break in December,” concluded Buthelezi.
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