Polokwane City continue to back Willy Moloto despite poor start

Polokwane City are standing by head coach Willy Moloto despite growing pressure after a difficult opening to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.

The Limpopo club suffered another setback at the weekend when they were beaten 1-0 by Siwelele FC, who recorded their first league win of the campaign in their eighth match.

The defeat leaves Polokwane City with only one victory from their opening eight league fixtures. They are 11th in the standings as they continue to search for a consistent run of results.

Despite the team’s struggles, the club is understood to remain supportive of Moloto as he attempts to improve their form.

Moloto was appointed before the start of the season after the unexpected departure of Phuti Mohafe. Mohafe left Polokwane City to join fellow top-flight club Marumo Gallants before later parting ways with the now Rustenburg-based side.

The current head coach is familiar with Polokwane City, having previously worked as co-coach alongside Innocent Mayoyo during the 2021/22 season. He has also been involved with the club’s DStv Diski Challenge team.

That knowledge of the club and its structures was among the factors considered when Moloto was given responsibility for the senior side. His immediate task, however, has been to deliver more consistent performances and results.

With the pressure likely to increase as the league season progresses, the next few fixtures could prove significant for Moloto and Polokwane City’s hopes of moving up the table.

They have an immediate chance to respond against Siwelele FC this weekend, when the two sides meet again in the opening round of the Carling Knockout Cup.

The cup tie will be played at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, giving Rise and Shine an opportunity to recover from their recent league defeat in front of their home supporters.

Polokwane City will then return to league action at the same venue, where they are scheduled to host TS Galaxy on October 31.

The two matches provide Moloto with an opportunity to build momentum and reduce some of the pressure surrounding his position. Polokwane City will be hoping to prevent their poor start from shaping the rest of their campaign.