Gallants banking on new options as search for first win continues

Ngwenya has now scored seven goals in the league, including the decisive strike against Gallants at Princess Magogo Stadium on Saturday, taking his tally to nine goals across all competitions. 

Mathiane believes Ngwenya’s early-season form underlines just how valuable a consistent striker is in the PSL.

"The boy has been doing well and he scores in every game. The striker position has been our sickness in South Africa because you have to hustle for a striker in this league. Ngwenya is the kind of striker every coach will love to have in their team."

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Gallants have bolstered their squad with the season-long loan arrivals of Orlando Pirates duo Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko, following Bheki Mabuza’s permanent move in the opposite direction.

Mathiane is hoping the additions will give his side greater attacking options and help them become more effective in front of goal.

"I think we've been having a problem with our striking force, but some players are joining the team next week after being unavailable for this game. These players, like Msendami will boost the team going forward."

The defeat was Mathiane’s first match in charge since taking over on an interim basis following the club’s decision to part ways with head coach Phuti Mohafe and assistant Musa Bilankulu.

The second assistant coach, who works with the club’s DStv Diski Challenge side, has been handed the responsibility of steadying the team while Gallants search for a permanent head coach.

The former defender remains confident that the first victory of the campaign is within reach as the team works to improve its performances and results.