Heartbreak as Mkhambathi FC misses out on promotion
Despite the disappointment, Safa uMgungundlovu regional executive officer Makhetha Mzimela praised the club for its achievements.
KwaZulu-Natal ABC Motsepe League champion Mkhambathi FC has narrowly missed out on promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after an impressive campaign that ended in heartbreak at the Safa ABC Motsepe League National Play-Offs in Mthatha.
The Cato Ridge-based outfit, affectionately known as The Rural Boys, represented both KwaZulu-Natal and the uMgungundlovu region at the national tournament.
However, their hopes of securing a place in South African football’s second tier were dashed when they suffered a 2-1 defeat to North West University (NWU) in the semi-finals.
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The loss brought an end to what had been a remarkable run for Mkhambathi FC. Having progressed from regional champions to provincial title holders, the team arrived in Mthatha unbeaten and was widely tipped as one of the favourites to secure promotion.
Despite the disappointment, Safa uMgungundlovu regional executive officer Makhetha Mzimela praised the club for its achievements and the manner in which it represented the province.
“While it was disappointing to see them lose so narrowly at the final hurdle, we remain extremely proud of what they achieved,” said Mzimela.
We were delighted when they became regional champions and later went on to win the KwaZulu-Natal title.
“To come so close to promotion and fall short was heartbreaking, but they represented KwaZulu-Natal with distinction throughout the competition.
“We want to congratulate them and encourage them to come back even stronger next season. Mkhambathi FC was not only representing itself but was carrying the KZN flag, and they showed the rest of the country the quality of football that is played in our province.”
Mzimela believes the experience gained at national level will prove invaluable as the club looks ahead to the new season.
“They played attractive football and were one of the standout teams at the tournament. The experience they gained will undoubtedly benefit them in future campaigns,” he said.
Mkhambathi FC general manager Ntuthuko Mlaba also paid tribute to the players, coaching staff and management team for their efforts during a demanding season.
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“I take my hat off to the players, technical team and management. We went through a lot during this campaign and there were many mentally challenging moments along the way,” said Mlaba.
“I salute everyone involved and remain incredibly proud of what we achieved. Although we did not secure promotion this time, I believe this team will return stronger. I am confident that next season they will be on another level.”
While promotion proved elusive, Mkhambathi FC’s journey from regional champions to national contenders has established the club as one of KwaZulu-Natal’s rising football forces, with hopes high that another opportunity will come their way in the seasons ahead.
