Royal AM coach John Maduka says they can’t afford to feel sorry for themselves after securing their first league win of the season.

Maduka’s side claimed a 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United at Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday, moving them up to fifth place in the league table with seven points from six matches.

Despite a narrow 2-1 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns midweek, Royal AM displayed a strong performance.

“These boys are working hard,” said Maduka after the game. 

“They put so much effort at training and here is just to present something they have been doing at training – the attitude has been right, they understand where we are now, it is them they must do the work. As coaches we are there to guide them.  

“At the end of the day, they know they have to work each week. We can’t sit down and complain – all those things. What we need to do is to work for ourselves and these boys have shown that at training.  

“They are not complaining, the attitude is good, the mentality is good and when you have players that are willing to work like that, then it becomes easy. 

“And we said we must work as a team because when you work as a team, you become so stronger and that’s why we have a team that is very united, a team that plays together, a team that when it goes forward, it goes forward together. When they defend, they defend together. 

“So, I’m so happy. I just hope that we don’t become complacent because once that creeps in, you think now you are the best, then that becomes a problem and you start dropping. 

“Now, it is for us to work even more harder because whoever is coming to play against us won’t take us lightly.”  

Despite the challenges faced by Royal AM, including a FIFA ban that resulted in the disqualification of their DStv Diski Challenge team, Maduka remains composed and focused.

“It’s good sometimes when you are silent and you focus on your game, or your work. You have known me for a long time, I’m like that, I speak to you guys,” he said. 

“When you need me, I avail myself. I prefer to work secretly because you guys (the media) make us and we must be humbled and respect you guys.”

Royal AM will host Polokwane City at Harry Gwala Stadium on Wednesday.