adminAaron Dube in Johannesburg
FORGOTTEN former Highlanders FC striker Ralph Matema is back in the thick of things after receiving his work permit two weeks ago.
He turns out for Witbank Spurs in the South African National Division One Soccer League. “This has been a hassle in my football career but now all is history and I have to focus on helping Witbank Spurs to end in a better position before the Christmas break. I’m ready to deliver and bang those important goals for my team,” said Matema on Tuesday.
Matema is praying that he stays free from injury.
A proven goalscorer who topped the charts in Zimbabwe, Matema is good at positioning himself on the soccer pitch.
His goalscoring exploits in 2006 earned him a lucrative move to Orlando Pirates where he however failed to impress.
Having been at Spurs for a number of seasons now, he understands very well the type of football played in the National First Division.
“I miss the Absa Premier Soccer League. I came here to be PSL property and that’s where I belong. I’m playing in the NFD for now but Spurs are top league material and I believe we will be promoted next season to the Absa Premier Soccer League,” said Matema.
Matema said he was happy at the club and looking forward to scoring important goals.
“My future at the team is good and I’m more than ready to start banging those crucial goals. I have never been this ready the whole of my football career. Players and management always say this is my season, I must stay focused.”
The lethal striker blames injuries which have characterized his stay in South Africa. But injuries, he says, are part of the game of football.
Matema’s Witbank Spurs’ next game is away to African Warriors in two weeks time.
This week there are no Absa PSL and NFD league games as there will be Fifa World Cup qualifiers and Bafana Bafana are playing an international friendly away this evening against Swaziland.
Next Tuesday evening South Africa take on World champions Spain at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
Online Reporter