Zwane Jokes About Season Ending As Top-four Push Continues
AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane admits he is so eager to secure a top-four finish that he has even joked about wanting the season to end now.
Usuthu missed a chance to climb to the top of the Betway Premiership standings after suffering a defeat to Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday.
Had they won the match, AmaZulu would have gone top of the table, as they were just two points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and second-placed Pirates at the time. Instead, the loss saw them remain fourth with 30 points after 17 matches, while Pirates moved to the summit.
A top-four finish has been set as a clear mandate by AmaZulu president Sandile Zungu for all coaches appointed at the club.
“As I’m sitting here, I wish the season could end now,” Zwane said, laughing, as he reflected on AmaZulu’s current league position.
The coach will soon mark one year in charge, having been appointed on 25 February last year.
“We are fine. The season can end now, as long as no one comes closer to us,” he added, drawing laughter from both himself and the media during a Nedbank Cup press conference ahead of their trip to face Polokwane City next Tuesday.
“I have mentioned before that we have a plan as a club. People on the outside don’t know what that plan is; they are just watching to see whether it will work or not. So far, I think things are going well.
“The pressure will always be there for a club of AmaZulu’s stature and rich history. We cannot keep fighting just to be in the top eight.
“There comes a time when things have to change, and if we are given the opportunity, it is up to us to make that change.
“Even if we fall short, we would have given our utmost. The president has given us trust, support and an opportunity, and it is up to us to show the quality we have.
“Trust me, not everyone can coach AmaZulu. Over the years, the biggest threats to AmaZulu have been relegation or the club being sold.
“When you think back to 1992, when the club won at FNB [Stadium against Kaizer Chiefs in the Coca-Cola Cup final], and you look at the squad they had, it still gives me goosebumps.
“I am in KwaZulu-Natal now, and while players come from different provinces, it is important that players from KZN are also given opportunities. That helps build a strong support base.
“Don’t misunderstand me by thinking I’m saying the club is only for Zulus – that’s not what I mean. But charity begins at home.”
