AmaZulu coach Pablo Franco Martin is clearly frustrated by his team’s inconsistency, expressing a strong desire for the season to end.

Martin’s anger stemmed from Usuthu letting slip a first-half lead against second-from-bottom Richards Bay in their DStv Premiership match at King Zwelithini Stadium on Tuesday. Augustine Mulenga had given Usuthu the early advantage, but the home side crumbled in the second half.

The arrival of eSwatini international Justice Figareido was a turning point for Richards Bay. Figareido equalized for the visitors, and winger Sanele Barns then headed home the winner late in the game to secure all three points for Richards Bay.

Usuthu’s struggles with consistency are a major concern for Martin. The team has only managed to win two games in a row once this season, during rounds five and six.

“This lack of consistency during the whole season, not only in different moments of each game, but in all the games,” said Martin after the game. 

“That it is impossible to look for higher positions.”

Martin went on to criticize his players’ individual performances, acknowledging that mistakes are hindering the team’s progress.

“As individuals, we are also making many mistakes and that means our level is what it is,” he said.

“We are trying to improve that; we tried that at the beginning of the season but we are still far from the level of the team which needs to fight for this high positions. I think we need to be more realistic, we need to be more humble to know what we are.

“From there, these are things that we were asked doing favours to Richards Bay, but we were favourable to Richards Bay today and that for me is pity.”  

Despite the loss, AmaZulu remain in 12th position in the DStv Premiership table with 31 points after 26 matches.

Their next challenge promises to be even tougher. Usuthu will travel to Danie Craven Stadium next Wednesday (19:30) to face Stellenbosch, a team currently unbeaten in 24 league matches.

Steve Barker’s side last tasted defeat in the league against Mamelodi Sundowns back in September. Their last home loss came against Moroka Swallows in the same month.

Picture courtesy of AmaZulu