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Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) have provided South African football with a case study, albeit a very expensive one, of what not to do after buying a status in the premiership.
From almost day one, the club from Venda has been mired in controversy – including that the players did not have training gear at the start of the season, the club not having enough registered players, the club embarrassingly announcing the signing of players who were not theirs and numerous player strikes.
Club owner Masala Mulaudzi seems to be in way over his head.
TTM’s troubles have followed the players on to the pitch, which is evident as the team languishes at the bottom of the standings, with nine points from 12 games. They were hammered 3-0 by Kaizer Chiefs in the middle of the week.
The club is reportedly in the process of being sold and the players again face uncertain times. With month-end approaching, it is probable that another player strike is looming, as the club is still struggling to pay salaries.
TTM could sink even deeper into the hole in which they find themselves after their clash with SuperSport United this afternoon.
Ironically, United are the prime example of a status purchase gone right, and the Pretoria club is a model of stability.
The club, which is owned by broadcast giant SuperSport, was bought in 1994 and had its name changed from Pretoria City.
Matsatsantsa a Pitori have won multiple championships, most recently the MTN8 last season.
Coach Kaitano Tembo has astutely guided the team for three seasons and they seem to be league contenders. United are among the leaders in the title race, with 24 points from 12 games.
However, Tembo should be wary of the wounded Venda side, especially at their home venue. He has already said he is worried about the heat in Limpopo, but with tropical cyclone Eloise expected to hit the province today, it could be a different ball game altogether.
TTM’s problems are compounded by the fact that they will be without imposing defender Alfred Ndengane and midfielder Joseph Molangoane, who are on suspension.
United, by contrast, should have a full complement of players with no suspensions. The league’s leading scorer, Bradley Grobler, will look to continue his incredible form, which has seen him net 11 goals in 12 games.
TTM coach Joel Masutha is under pressure to start delivering, or he could be the next casualty.
In today’s only other match, Golden Arrows will travel to the Mother City to face Cape Town City.
Abafana Bes’thende remain unbeaten in the league after 11 games. Mandla Ncikazi has done exceptionally well since taking over the team after Steve Komphela left. Arrows have 19 points from 11 games. The Citizens, on the other hand, also have 19 points after 12 games.
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