SamukeloNgodela’s “hobby” is no longer a secret; it is scoring goals and helping Tuks win in Varsity football.
For the second week in a row, the diminutive player scored the winning goal for Tuks. His heroics enabled Tuks yesterday to beat TUT 1–0 and top the log, securing a home semifinal against UWC next week. Northwest and Kovsies will be contesting the other semifinal.
Ngodela, who is only 1.61 metres tall and weighs 62kg, has had a brilliant season so far for Tuks. He is the team’s top scorer, with three goals. He also got the Player of the Game award in two matches. The Tuks player refuses to take sole credit for his on-field heroics.
“Every goal is the result of a team effort. I am the guy who is at the right place at the right time. Part of why I have been scoring goals is that I work at it during training. I need to score goals during training as it gives me confidence. So, during a game, I do what I did during training.
“The goal I scored against CUT is one of my best. If you have not seen it, try to watch the video. Scoring against DUT was also memorable. Especially since Tuks has not won against them for a few years. The goal came about from brilliant teamwork. I saw an opening and decided to go for it. My teammate delivered a great pass. I focused on keeping my composure and putting the ball in the back of the net.”
Last night against TUT, Ngodela scored in the 11th minute of the game with perfect timing. He headed the ball into the back of the net.
Ngodela prides himself on being versatile.
“I play where the coaches want me to play. Right back, left-wing or central attacking midfielder. It does not matter so long as I get to play. t is crucial during a game to be in the midst of the action, whether on attack or in defence.”
According to him, he has been playing football from the time he could remember.
“Whenever I’m on the field, I feel happy and stressless. Playing football is the talent that God has given me,” explains the Sports Science student.
In seven games, Tuks scored 10 goals and conceded only four. Tuks was victorious in five games, drew one and lost once. Tshepiso Mahlangu and Raymond Matlala are the other two players who scored more than once. Both have two to their names.
Kickoff for Thursday’s semifinal clash against UWC is at 17:00 at Tuks. UWC is the only team that has beaten the Tuks so far.