Kruger United victory eases pressure on coach Abram Mangoya

Kruger United manager Abram Mangoya has been given breathing space after his side returned to winning ways in the Betway Premiership with a late 1-0 victory over Chippa United.

Sipho Sibiya scored in injury time on Saturday to secure only the club’s second league win of the campaign. The result moved the newcomers up to 12th in the standings and followed another 1-0 success against TS Galaxy.

Kruger’s difficult start had placed Mangoya under increasing pressure. Their opening eight matches produced two wins, one draw and five defeats, prompting concern that results were not matching expectations.

However, KickOff understands that the club’s management continued to believe Mangoya was the right person to lead the project, despite the growing urgency to improve the team’s results.

Sources indicated that the coach retained the backing of the management before Saturday’s match, although there was a clear need for Kruger to find a way to change their fortunes.

The victory over Chippa United, known as the Chilli Boys, is understood to have improved the mood around the Mpumalanga-based club and reduced the pressure on Mangoya.

Management have no intention of ending their relationship with the coach, with the team’s style of play believed to be an important reason for their continued support.

There is also a belief within the club that Mangoya is developing something positive. The football produced by Kruger has encouraged officials to think results can improve as the team adapts to the demands of top-flight football.

The win provides the Village Boys with an opportunity to build momentum, although they face a different challenge before their next league fixture.

Mangoya’s side will meet AmaZulu in the Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16 this month. They will then return to Betway Premiership action when they host Richards Bay on Saturday, October 31.

Another positive result in that match would further reinforce the progress Kruger hope to make under Mangoya and provide additional evidence that their difficult opening run is beginning to turn.