Bradley Grobler targets PSL scoring record after signing for Stellenbosch FC

Bradley Grobler has signed a one-year contract with Stellenbosch FC as he attempts to overtake Peter Shalulile and become the Premier Soccer League’s all-time leading scorer.

The 38-year-old striker has scored 128 PSL goals, two fewer than Shalulile’s record 134. Shalulile has since left the league to join Tanzanian club Young Africans, giving Grobler the opportunity to close the gap during what could be the final season of his career.

Grobler’s father, Les, said he was pleased his son had chosen to continue playing after considering retirement and believed Stellenbosch FC would give him the best chance of reaching the landmark.

The move also reunites Grobler with manager Gavin Hunt, who knows the forward well and previously worked with him.

Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Grobler senior said: “Well, I think it’s a good move for Brad.”

“Because Gavin (Hunt) knows and trusts him to do the job. Brad obviously knows Gavin very well. I also think because of Brad’s age and the injuries, Gavin will manage him a lot better than other clubs,” stated Grobler senior.

He added that the prospect of becoming the PSL’s leading scorer had been a major factor in Grobler’s decision to delay retirement.

“So I think those are key factors, you know, why Brad has probably gone there. It’s a good one in terms of that. In terms of being the PSL top scorer of all time, I mean, it’s not every day you’re going to get this close. And especially towards the end of your career as well.

“You know, the injury really set in his mindset last year and he was toying with the idea of retiring. But we spoke to him and I said to him, look it’s not far for you to go to get that milestone. And you’re not going to have it again. You know, you can’t give it a year break and then come back because then it’s going to be over and done.

“So I said to him, at least give it a try. If you succeed, you’re going to retire on a high note. If you don’t succeed, well, then you don’t succeed.”

Grobler senior said the record would be difficult to surpass and that his son would not have another opportunity to pursue it if he stepped away from football now.

“I mean, it’s life and it’s part of the game and it’s what happens. But, you know, it’s a milestone that is not going to be easily beaten. So I’m glad he’s made that decision to go to Stellies,” he added.

“Because I think he’ll get every opportunity there at least. Gavin knows what Brad can do. And, you know, it’s a good scenario for both parties.”

Grobler is currently third in the all-time PSL scoring standings. Siyabonga Nomvethe is second on 129 goals, meaning Grobler needs two goals to move above him and seven to surpass Shalulile.

The top 10 PSL scorers are:

1. Peter Shalulile – 134 goals 2. Siyabonga Nomvethe – 129 goals 3. Bradley Grobler – 128 goals 4. Daniel Mudau – 110 goals 5. Mabhuti Khenyeza – 110 goals 6. Manuel ‘Tico-Tico’ Bucuane – 104 goals 7. Collins Mbesuma – 103 goals 8. Khama Billiat – 97 goals 9. Lehlohonolo Majoro – 91 goals 10. Wilfred Mugeyi – 91 goals