AmaZulu coach Zwane expects progress after winning start

AmaZulu boss Arthur Zwane believes his side can improve on last season’s fourth-place finish after beginning their Betway Premiership campaign with a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch.

Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya scored the only goal at Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium on Saturday, giving Usuthu the ideal start to their league campaign.

Zwane was encouraged by the result and said AmaZulu’s performances should develop as the season continues, even though he accepted there were areas that needed work.

“We really wanted to start well,” Zwane said.

“Sometimes it is not about how you perform but getting maximum points and gaining momentum. Make the players start believing in themselves, because it is not easy.

“To build confidence, belief, and chemistry in the squad, you need to win games. Sometimes you will win ugly.”

Although AmaZulu secured all three points by a single-goal margin, Zwane felt the score did not reflect the number of opportunities his team created.

“We had chances, and I don’t think the 1-0 scoreline was a true reflection; it could have been more.”

The coach said the team needed to become more consistent as it develops, but praised the players for ensuring they did not leave the match without a result.

“I think if we can improve, we can be a solid team. Nevertheless, first game of the season, and we were going to be a bit sloppy. But I would be disappointed if we didn’t get points, and the guys deserve credit.”

Zwane also said the team’s tactical structure was beginning to take shape, with AmaZulu determined to maintain their identity regardless of whether opponents can anticipate their approach.

“Our structure is getting better,” said Zwane.

“Whether you know what we are going to do or not, we will do it, and we will still penetrate you; that’s our strength.”

AmaZulu finished fourth last season and will now look to build on that campaign, with Zwane stressing that belief will be central to their progress.

“When you are building a system and identity, there will be up-and-down results here and there, but we still have to believe. It is like when you are building a house, you have a plan, and no matter what happens, you will stick to the plan.”

The Durban club’s next fixture is a meeting with Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 quarter-final at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off at 3pm.

Zwane said the team’s development would become clearer as the campaign moved forward, while further victories would help strengthen the players’ confidence.

“As the campaign progresses, we will see whether we are progressing or regressing. When we keep on winning, the players will get confidence, and that’s very important.”

The other MTN8 quarter-final fixtures are Orlando Pirates against Durban at Orlando Stadium on Saturday at 3pm, and Mamelodi Sundowns against Polokwane at Lucas Moripe Stadium at 6pm.

On Sunday, Kaizer Chiefs face Lamontville Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium at 6pm, after AmaZulu’s match against Sekhukhune United.