Former player says experience key for Motlakase
Bonte Seepi | Tuesday November 25, 2014 10:52
Motlakase were recently on the receiving end of an 8-1 aggregate drubbing at the hands of Township Rollers during the Mascom Top 8.
The is also struggling in the be MOBILE Premier League, sitting precariously in position 12 with 11points from 11 games.
“Motlakase has been under-performing since the beginning of this season. Last season was much better because most of the experienced players were still in the team and they even managed to get into top eight.
“Chouka have lost a lot of experienced players like Malepa ‘Chippa’ Bolelang, Toya Moroka, Zwae and Mbesuma and they were not replaced by better players,” said Makgathi, who could not remember off hand the full names of Zwae and Mbesuma.
The 35-year-old said if the experienced players had been replaced the team could be doing better. He said the added pressure of travelling every week was affecting the team.
“Normally the players get motivated by the supporters singing and cheering. So I believe that if Chouka had a stadium in Palapye, more of its supporters could be coming to the games hence inspiring the players,” said Makgathi.
The Palapye-born footballer said it is critical for players to be self-motivated.
He said during their time, they played without being paid, but still performed on the pitch. “Today’s football is all about money. If players are not paid well or on time they get throw tantrums.
“Their biggest motivation is money because most of the players are not working. They rely on football for a living, not necessarily for the love of the game,” said Makgathi.
He advised players to invest wisely so that they can lead a decent life after they retire. He said during his playing days, they aspired to represent the country.
“Today’s players aspire to play for the national team and in competitive leagues in South Africa and Europe.” Makgathi who started playing for Chouka at First Division said as a former player he does not have much influence on the team.
But he normally advises and encourages individual players to stay focused in order to succeed. Makgathi, a known no-nonsense midfielder during his days, urged players to focus on football and not let off-the-field distractions get in the way of their careers.
Makgathi, who was forced into early retirement through injury in 2010, began his career at Motlakase as a defender in 2005 before moving to the midfield.
The team had the likes of Dimpho Terena, Nicky Phale, John Moeketsane and Alijah Kagwe. Makgathi has nothing but praise for former coach, Benedict Bayani whom he credits for taking the side to the Premier League in 2010.