Phuti Mohafe

Polokwane City FC coach Phuti Mohafe has commended the leadership of a former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder since joining the club in the January transfer window period.

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Mohafe was speaking after their 0-0 draw with Sekhukhune United in a DStv Premiership Limpopo Derby tie at the Old Peter Mokaba on Saturday afternoon.

The Rise and Shine mentor is impressed with how the midfielder has brought stability in the middle of the park for his side and how he’s making the Limpopo club gel well as a team.

The player in question is none other than Cole Alexander, who signed for the club from Swedish side Helsingborgs IF.

Alexander, 34, spent six months at Helsingborgs IF, following his departure from the Soweto giants Chiefs in August 2023.

He’s not a stranger to the Rise and Shine, as he first signed for the club back in July 2014. Since the return of the veteran midfielder at Polokwane City, he has featured in eight games across all competitions.

PHUTI MOHAFE COMMEND COLE ALEXANDER’S IMPACT AND LEADERSHIP Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Cole Alexander in Polokwane City FC colours

Coach Mohafe revealed that Alexander has brought so much change within the team, as they are now playing better football when the experienced midfielder is on the field of play.

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“You see now, we are playing much better ball possession. We are rotating the ball very good because of him. And we are also holding onto the ball very well,” said Mohafe in a post-match interview.

“We know the moments when we should pass the ball and when to get the killer pass. We also know when to combine a play in the middle of the park and we know when to go wide.

“So, he has brought an experience that is needed within the club and his leadership in the field. It’s helping us great time.”

WHY COLE ALEXANDER STRUGGLED TOWARDS THE END OF THE GAME

Towards the end of the game against Babina Noko, Alexander struggled a bit, and the coach revealed why the ex-Amakhosi man struggled.

“I think the first-half took its toll on him because he’s the one who was making us play. I think even the heat played its part. You know, he has been out of the country for quite some time,” he added.

“So, I think the heat and the performance that he gave in the first-half took a toll on him. But it’s not a big deal and I think he will come up in the remaining matches that are left to be a well-oiled machine.”

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