Posted in News, Team News on Feb 20, 2019.
“It is that more special in knowing that the fans voted for you.” The award was decided via an online vote on www.psl.co.za as Maluleka’s goal was the winner amongst a shortlist of Absa Premiership goals scored in December 2018.
In the absence of Itumeleng Khune and Willard Katsande, Maluleka captained the side in the first match of Ernst Middendorp’s second reign at Kaizer Chiefs. “A lot of responsibility is passed on to me and I’m always grateful to contribute, though there are quite a number of us who shoulder that responsibility,” commented Maluleka, who is quite aware of his role as one of the leaders in the team.
Bernard Parker and Kabelo Mahlasela – both coming on as substitutes on that night – combined before eventually finding Maluleka, who teed up for the shot before expertly firing with his instep to put the ball past Ronwen Williams.
Not only did Maluleka score the winning goal in Amakhosi’s triumph over SuperSport United, he was also handed the Man of the Match award for his sterling performance in the middle of the park.
Maluleka previously played as a striker before being converted into a midfielder so despite not scoring many goals, he has a knack for netting beautiful goals when he does.
“I have a lot of goals in me,” continued Maluleka, “it’s just that with the position I play, I never really find myself in good goalscoring positions.”
The Amakhosi faithful will remember all too well Maluleka’s brilliance from set-pieces being the catalyst of a 5-0 aggregate victory over Platinum Stars in the 2014/15 MTN 8 semi-final en route to eventually winning the trophy.
That was Maluleka’s first piece of silverware with the Glamour Boys. ‘Mido’ was then asked whether he fancies chances of lifting some silverware this season. “Big time,” was the convincing response as the team has progressed to the quarterfinals of the Nedbank Cup.
Maluleka hopes to chip in with a few more goals for the season in that bid for honours. “I can probably squeeze in about three to five more goals” concluded a confident ‘Mido’.
https://youtu.be/OkF4vpU9wKY