Ngwenya continues hot streak as AmaZulu striker

Blessing Malinganiza

ZIMBABWE international Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya has enjoyed a blistering start to the South African football season, scoring three goals in AmaZulu’s opening two competitive matches and underlining his growing importance to the Durban-based club.

The 23-year-old striker followed up his match-winning display against Stellenbosch with a brace in AmaZulu’s thrilling 4-3 extra-time defeat to Sekhukhune United in an MTN8 quarter-final clash at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday.

Ngwenya opened the scoring in the 14th minute with an expertly taken volley that slipped through the legs of Sekhukhune goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi, handing Usuthu an early advantage.

After AmaZulu fell behind 3-1 following a dramatic spell either side of half-time, the Zimbabwean forward once again showcased his predatory instincts in the 56th minute. He met Mondli Mbanjwa’s inviting cross with a diving near-post header to reduce the deficit and reignite his side’s hopes.

Defender Taariq Fielies levelled matters just two minutes later to send the match into extra time, but substitute Vuyo Letlapa struck in the 97th minute to hand Sekhukhune United victory and end AmaZulu’s cup campaign.

Despite the disappointment of elimination, Ngwenya’s two-goal performance continued an impressive start to the season after he scored the decisive goal in AmaZulu’s 1-0 Betway Premiership victory over Stellenbosch.

The former FC Platinum striker calmly converted a second-half penalty after Mosa Lebusa brought down Athini Maqokola inside the penalty area, securing all three points for Usuthu in their league opener.

Ngwenya’s bright beginning to the campaign comes after an injury-interrupted debut season in South African football. Despite spending a lengthy spell on the sidelines, he still emerged as AmaZulu’s leading scorer with eight goals in 20 appearances across all competitions.

The Warriors forward found the net seven times in 17 league matches, a return that earned him the club’s Golden Boot award despite missing several games through a foot injury.

“Last season was tough because the injury slowed me down, but I am grateful to God and the coaches for believing in me. The club embraced me when I was down and it is this kind of love that has really given me confidence.

“Winning the club’s Golden Boot even after spending time on the sidelines gave me confidence. Now the target is bigger. I want to help AmaZulu first, and if the goals come and I can challenge for the PSL Golden Boot, I will take it.”

Ngwenya said his immediate focus is to establish himself as a reliable and consistent performer in Coach Arthur Zwane’s side as he looks to build on the promise shown during his debut campaign.

“I am working hard every day because my goal is to be an expensive player, a player that my club AmaZulu can always count on, whether I come from the bench or return from injury,” he said.

The in-form striker will have another opportunity to continue his impressive scoring run when AmaZulu welcome Orlando Pirates in a Betway Premiership encounter on Wednesday.