Zothwane Compares Mahala To Sundowns Legend
Richards Bay co-coach Papi Zothwane has described striker Lundi Mahala as a rare talent, comparing him to former Mamelodi Sundowns forward Raphael Chukwu.
Mahala has stepped up at a crucial time for Richards Bay after joining the club during the off-season as a replacement for Yanela Mbuthuma, who moved to Orlando Pirates.
The striker has made an immediate impact, most notably scoring a hat-trick as Richards Bay eliminated Siwelele on penalties in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 two weeks ago. So far this season, Mahala has featured in 20 matches across all competitions and has scored five goals.
Zothwane: “He Is a Rare Type of Striker”
“Lundi Mahala is a young boy, very energetic,” said Zothwane.
“At our club, one of the main criteria when signing players is to bring in those who are still hungry and want to make a name for themselves.
“I think what has helped him most is that he understands why he is here. He comes from the Eastern Cape, where he did not get an opportunity to play for Chippa United.
“But he has been given that opportunity at Richards Bay. He is very, very focused. He is a rare type of striker — the Chukwu kind. There is a lot we have had to work on with him, especially his composure in the box, which was something he lacked.”
Chukwu, who had two spells at Sundowns, scored 51 goals in 113 appearances for the club and remains one of their most prolific forwards.
Zothwane, who also played for Sundowns during his career, believes Mahala is progressing well but still has room to improve.
“Slowly but surely, he is getting there. But he is still far from where he wants to be. With players like Knox Mutizwa around him, he is learning.
“He is creating healthy competition with Knox. If he continues performing and keeps playing regularly, he will keep growing. I believe he has the potential to become one of the best strikers.”
Nedbank Cup Focus: AmaZulu Await
Richards Bay will be hoping Mahala continues his impressive form in the Ke Yona Cup when they host AmaZulu FC in the Nedbank Cup round of 16 at Umhlathuze Sports Ground on Friday.
