Royal AM coach John Maduka believes his team’s lack of new signings has been a blessing in disguise.

Unlike other clubs, he hasn’t had to deal with the challenges of integrating new players into the team.

Previously, Cape Town City coach Eric Tinkler noted that Royal AM’s continuity gave them an advantage over his team, which signed over 10 new players.

Royal AM has been under a FIFA transfer ban for three PSL windows, preventing them from signing new players. Despite this, they have started the season with three draws, collecting three points.

Maduka praised his players’ understanding and cohesion, which has been facilitated by the inclusion of DStv Diski Challenge players like Sbangani Zulu.

While Maduka acknowledges the importance of reinforcing the team with key players, he believes the current squad’s continuity has made his job easier. “It helps a lot that we still have the same players,” said Maduka after the game on Tuesday. 

“Because when you play together for a long time, the understanding is easy. And again, with us introducing the DStv Diski Challenge boys…. you look at Sbangani Zulu, because we give them chances, it is working for us. Even when they were at the Diski team, they used to come and train with us and go back.  

“So, because of that, it helps us to make our job easier. But it is also imperative to reinforce the team and have a player that can score goals, which can be influential in the midfield and defense.”  

The transfer ban has also allowed Royal AM chairman Andile Mpisane to play more matches.

Maduka is particularly pleased with his team’s defensive improvements. Last season, they conceded 43 goals, the most in the league. This season, they have been much more resilient.

“This is very encouraging,” said Maduka. 

“Remember last season, we conceded so many goals (43 and more than any other team) because in defense we were so bad. We had to try and fix that and make sure that we don’t concede many goals because we strongly believe that it takes one second to score a goal.  

“If you don’t concede many, it gives us a chance to win many games because a tight game like this, like SuperSport, if you have a chance, you have to make use of the chance and win the game. Again, the way we have been defending, it tells you that we can be able to win 1-0 or 2-1 or 2-0. 

“So, this is very encouraging to see the boys working very hard. Yes, it is too early, but we have improved in that area (defense) and now we have to start scoring goals.”